Cllr Codd Calls for support for Irish Fisheries in this Crisis

THE GOVERNMENT MUST SUPPORT IRISH FISHERIES

Aontú Councillor Jim Codd calls on the Irish government to support Irish fisherman. The industry is in crisis, with the collapse of European food markets and the economic impact of the lockdown hitting fisherman in the pocket. Further to this, the continued delay in any form of financial package has deprived the sector of much needed economic relief.

The government and European authorities must act swiftly to protect against permanent economic damage to the industry. The European authorities have indicated that they have made resources and tools available to member states to support the ‘hard-hit fishing and aquaculture sectors.’ This beggars the question, if there are European resources available, why has the government yet to divert any funding, resources or tools to the industry to bail out an industry devastated by the pandemic be it in terms of business closures or suspension of activities?

The government response to the concerns of several sectors be it the agricultural, childcare, or fishing & aquaculture has been far too slow and opaque – this uncertainty has put additional strain on already strained industries. Aontú Councillor Jim Codd reaffirms his demand for the government to support Irish fisherman, and to do so swiftly to relieve the industry.

The Irish political system is radically broken

In Ireland the vast majority of elected representatives put a finger in the air to check which way the political wind is blowing. They have one eye on their leaders – seeking brownie points – and another eye keeping their seat safe. If elected reps shut up and do as they’re told, they are promoted; if they stand up for what they believe in, they are demoted. No wonder we have the political class we have. No wonder one point one billion euro is being buried in a hole under the National Children’s Hospital and that Stormont is in stalemate.

Throughout Ireland, many people are now afraid to say what they feel, many are afraid to respectfully engage on a range of different topics. Many feel there is a new censorship and a new political correctness in Ireland, that opposition to the establishment is being deleted.

Respectful opposition is not the enemy. Respectful opposition is a critical element of a functional democracy. Aontú will have the backbone to stand up, without fear, for you.