Ireland’s pelagic fleet faces what industry leaders call a “looming crisis” as ICES has recommended drastic quota cuts for 2026—70% for mackerel and 41% for blue whiting.
In an article in The Skipper, The Irish Fish Producers Organisation (IFPO) says the cuts would hit Ireland harder than any other EU country and could lead to fleet collapse and up to 2,600 job losses.
Ireland says it is being punished for fishing sustainably
IFPO CEO Aodh O’Donnell argues the quota reductions penalise Ireland for following scientific advice. At the same time, non-EU states have expanded catches far beyond sustainable levels.
He accuses Norway, Iceland, the Faroe Islands and Russia of inflating quotas, blocking fair access arrangements, and destabilising stock management.
“These cuts punish Ireland for fishing sustainably,” he says. “Ireland and the EU have played by the rules—others have not.”
Calls for EU trade action against “rogue” fishing states
O’Donnell says the EU must use legal tools, including targeted trade measures, to curb overfishing by non-EU states and restore balance in shared pelagic stocks.
European trade bodies, including EAPO and Europêche, have also raised similar concerns.
Financial impact could reach €84m
A 70% cut in mackerel alone could cost Ireland €84 million in lost export value in a single year, according to the IFPO.
The organisation backs Irish Marine Minister Timmy Dooley’s call for decisive action at the December Fisheries Council, including the complete application of the Hague Preferences and the refusal of blue-whiting quota transfers to Norway.
“This is about fairness, sustainability, and the future of Irish coastal communities,” O’Donnell says.