Major concerns are being raised by members of the Irish seafood industry regarding potential significant cuts to EU funding, which they say could devastate fisheries in Donegal and across Ireland.
The proposed changes involve the removal of the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), the dedicated EU fund for seafood.
This fund would be replaced by a wider funding pool, shared with sectors like agriculture and regional development. Critically, only 1% of the proposed €865 million fund would be specifically allocated to fishing.
The Seafood Industry Alliance (SIA) in Ireland is warning that these changes could put up to two-thirds of all fisheries jobs in Ireland at risk, estimating a potential loss of 16,000 jobs.
Dominic Rihan, CEO of the Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation, states that this situation could push the Irish fishing industry to the brink of collapse.
“Without a dedicated funding stream for seafood, we risk losing essential investment. This could push us to the margins when we should be front and centre in providing food security and maintaining coastal communities,” he stated.
“We welcome the leadership of Minister Timmy Dooley and call on all Irish MEPs to back a fair deal,” Rihan added. “This is a moment for strong action. Our seafood sector depends on it.”
Fishing industry warns of potential “two-thirds” cut in EU funding was last modified: July 23rd, 2025 by
