Recommended 20% increase in mackerel quota for 2020

The International Council for the Exploration of the Seas has recommended a 19.7% increase in mackerel quota in 2020.

This announcement follows scientific advice in May of this year of a recommended 20% increase on 2019’s Total Allowable Catch (TAC).

Welcoming the addition, Deputy Pat the Cope Gallagher and Leas-Cheann Comhairle, said that given this increase was not passed on to the fishing industry, “it follows that the Irish quota for 2020 should increase by approximately 40%” from 55,313 tonnes to approx 77,500 tonnes.

“Last year I challenged the ICES advice and was disappointed with the coastal states that they did not increase the TAC mid-term so it is vitally important that the sectors get the benefits next year.”

While the threat of Brexit still looms over the sector, Deputy Gallagher said he was “confident” a deal or an extension could be agreed:

“This will allow fishermen to continue fishing mackerel in UK waters where we catch 60% of our mackerel,” he said.