Protecting oyster fishing on the Fal

I was pleased to have been able to speak in a debate on a subject that is close to the hearts of many of my constituents – that of the appalling practice of discarding fish into the sea as a result of the EU fishing policy.

The Fish Fight campaign broadcast on television graphically demonstrated the issue and prompted many people to write to me.  I was happy to vote for a Backbench motion that asked the Government to do all it can during the current round of negotiations with the EU to end this dreadful practice.

The debate was also an opportunity for me to press the Government for a further reform of the EU Fisheries policy that could have a dreadful impact on the Truro Oyster Fishery.  The fishery is the last remaining commercial fishing fleet under sail in Europe with over five hundred years of traditional fishing experience.

At the moment, the oyster working boats on the Fal measuring less than 10 metres do not have to obtain a Marine Fisheries License which is required by the EU for all commercial fishing boats.  This exemption was won by Captain Brigden and Carrick Council back in 1993.  The EU is now looking at reviewing this particular exemption which would significantly increase overhead costs for oyster fishermen.  This extra overhead could put local oyster fishermen out of business.

I am working with DEFRA Ministers to ensure that the exemption continues and some of the world’s most sustainable fishing continues on the Fal.

Working with the Police Federation, I organised a meeting between Devon and Cornwall police officers and their MPs from across Devon and Cornwall.  I wanted to make sure that their concerns could be raised and discussed in Parliament.

Finally, in the week that we begin to celebrate the 350 years since Falmouth was given its Charter, I was pleased to be joined by the Mayor of Falmouth in the presentation of a petition to 10 Downing Street asking the Government to do all it can to ensure the dredging of a channel in Falmouth Harbour.

It is vital that a balance is struck between securing the economic prosperity of Falmouth and the protection of our natural environment.  The comprehensive and independent work undertaken by environmental protection experts demonstrates that the dredging can be done in an appropriate way.  The UK and EU have strong environmental protection laws.

Since being elected I have worked with the Minister responsible for the MMO and other public bodies to ensure a way forward can be found that both protects the environment and allows for the dredging of the channel needed to enable the businesses in the port to continue to thrive.  I am particularly keen to see Falmouth become a centre for marine renewable energy.