Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is my belief that the terms of the political declaration made on 22 November this year are not binding on either the UK or the EU. Specifically, I believe that the wording in section XII, Fishing Opportunities, makes it very clear that what is set out in paragraphs 73, 74, 75 and 76 is aspirational and is legally binding on neither party. This causes serious worries for all Irish fishermen who currently are almost strangers in their own waters. Given the importance of Brexit to every single sector in Irish society, our fishing industry has serious and legitimate concerns. In order to prepare for the many challenges Brexit could bring, each fisherman needs to know the up-to-date position.

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