Cherilyn Mackrory MP for Truro and Falmouth champions Cornwall’s pollack fishermen and secures Government support for this vital industry.
The Secretary of State for DEFRA, Steve Barclay MP, announced this week (April 10th) a new compensation scheme for fishermen whose income has been affected by the zero total allowable catch decision which was recommended by the International Council for Exploration of the Seas last year.
This decision particularly harmed our under-10 metre fishing fleet, which are a staple of Cornwall’s historic coastal communities and rural economy.
British fishers will be protected by proper funding to thrive and build a sustainable coastal economy and a healthy marine environment.
This compensation will directly benefit fishermen in ports from Mevagissey to Mylor and beyond, who have traditionally relied on pollock fishing and for whom the decision caused the most harm.
Cherilyn says:
“I welcome the decision by the Secretary of State to act and save our fishermen.
“Fishing is a vital Cornish industry, creating jobs and supporting local people, but more than that it is part of our Cornish identity and culture and cannot be allowed to decline. It is right that we protect our environment and ensure a sustainable fishing stock, but the zero TAC decision has impacted so many of our local fishermen and they cannot be forgotten in this discussion.
“All six conservative Cornish MPs have worked together on this, and I am so pleased that Ministers have understood the problem and have got this compensation scheme up and running so we can help support our fishermen.”
