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

It is vital that the Minister have discussions with the European countries, the fisheries of which would be affected by a UK crash-out. Perhaps he might elaborate on the type of compensation package that is being envisaged for fishermen who may well lose 50% of their income and whose boats could be tied up at piers. The same applies to the farming sector. It is going through a very difficult time, as we have seen with the beef crisis and the protests. A no-deal Brexit could destroy the livelihoods of many farmers. At a meeting yesterday the Irish Farmers Association, IFA, estimated that a €1 billion Brexit fund for market support measures was needed. Again, what type of compensation package does the Minister have in mind for Irish agriculture, given that it is going through a serious crisis, especially in the beef sector? It is volatile and fishermen and farmers must have a very strong voice as we proceed. Fishermen need to know what the position is. Fishermen from Castletownbere and along the coastline, fishermen on the bigger trawlers and even inshore fishermen are asking me about it. There is a serious worry that there is no package in place and that no proper discussions are taking place, but I hope that is not the case.

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