5.1 Overview

5.1 Overview

The seas around Ireland are among the most productive and biologically sensitive areas in EU waters. Fishing has always been of significant social and economic importance to Ireland. The natural, clean water around Ireland’s 7,500 kilometre coastline has always been a source for outstanding seafood. Our seas are some of the most fruitful in the EU and this highly valuable resource is one we need to nurture and protect for our future generations.

The majority of fishery resources fall under the remit of Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), with the current iteration of this policy in place since 1st January 2014. The aim of this policy is to establish environmental, economic and social sustainability within our fisheries and aquaculture. This is to be done in a manner that results in a viable and competitive seafood sector for all. In February 2023, the EU Fisheries Commissioner published the Commission’s assessment on the functioning of the CFP along with a package of measures to improve the sustainability and resilience of the fisheries and aquaculture sector.

This sector employed 15,373 people in 2022, helping to sustain vibrant rural and coastal communities across Ireland. This includes on fishing vessels, fish farms, in processing operations and in the distribution of seafood. This industry is essential to these communities and to the greater Irish economy.

Figure from page 176