The Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) welcomes the announcement of restrictions on fishing on vessels larger than 18 meters within 6 nautical miles of the coast and baselines.
This measure is very welcome as it safeguards forage fish and other species which are so important to support the marine ecosystem. The IWDG acknowledges the transitional measure of allocating a 2000 ton sprat quota to the large vessels for the 12 months between October 2025 and 2026, which will contribute to support coastal communities.
However, IWDG is looking for clarification on some aspects of this new policy directive.
Does the government intend moving to a full quota system for sprat fished by vessels less than 18 meters?
Will other forage fish such as sandeels, pilchards and anchovies be protected by quotas?
This is important to ensure the sustainable future of this fishery.
We look forward to the Marine Institute providing the science to underpin a full assessment of sprat and other forage fish which may be targeted. Only by carrying out a full stock assessment can we ensure that these precious fish stocks be maintained into the future.
We thank Ministers Dooley and O’Sullivan for their commitment to targeted fisheries management and acknowledging that predators, other than humans, are also entitled to access this valuable food resource The IWDG look forward to working with Government to assess the status of whale and dolphin populations and their dietary requirements to ensure that future fishery models fully account for the needs of current and future populations.