Poots pledges to stand up for local fishermen

Fisheries Minister Mr Edwin Poots, has vowed to fight for our local fishing industry and support its growth as he visited Kilkeel Harbour today.

Minister Poots pictured with Ben Collier during his visit to ANIFPO in Kilkeel Harbour

The Minister met with Mr Alan McCulla, OBE, Chief Executive of the Anglo-Northern Ireland Fish Producers Organisation, and representatives of Sea Source, to hear first-hand the issues facing the Northern Ireland fishing industry.

After the meeting the Minister said: “I visited Kilkeel today to see for myself the current concerns facing our fishermen.

“I recognise the challenges faced by our industry and will stand up for our local fleet.  I’m very keen to hear how we can work together to help with the industry’s ambitious plans for future development. 

We discussed potential future fishing opportunities in the Irish Sea and even more pressing, the need to protect and support the industry to prosper, post-Brexit. I have made clear that it is unacceptable for our industry to be at any disadvantage.

“The industry has made real progress in improving sustainability and we need to build on this to ensure a vibrant and prosperous future for the industry.”

Notes to editors: 

1. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. 
2. All media queries should be directed to the DAERA Press Office on 028 9052 4619 or via email. Out of office hours, please contact the duty press officer on 028 9037 8110.

Share this page