Kilmore Quay Fishermen Face Crisis Amid Calls for Reform

A local councillor has warned that the fishing industry in Kilmore is on the brink of collapse.

At a meeting with Minister Timmy Dooley at Kilmore Quay yesterday, a room full of concerned fishermen expressed their deep fears for the future. 

Many shared harrowing stories of trawlers turning back early, unable to cover the costs of staying at sea.

One of the key topics was the 2006 Maritime Jurisdiction Act, which fishermen argue has criminalized their profession.

Rosslare Councillor Jim Codd has shared his serious concerns calling for fisheries offences to be removed from the criminal justice system and replaced with a fairer system of penalties.

Local fishermen expressed frustration over unworkable quotas and soaring diesel prices, which are making it impossible to stay at sea profitably.

Many boats are returning early from trips, unable to cover costs.

Meanwhile, Belgian boats are able to bypass Irish restrictions by hiring local hauliers to bring Black Sole catches back to Belgium, highlighting the disparity in quotas.

While Belgium holds 567 tons of Black Sole quota, Ireland has just 28 tons.

Fishermen argue that it’s impossible to target specific fish without accidentally catching others, and this is leading to unnecessary criminalization.

Reform is urgently needed to save the fishing industry in Kilmore Quay and beyond, with many fearing the industry won’t survive without immediate changes.