Cronin, M. Jessopp, M. Reid, D.;

2010

November

Seals and fish stocks in Irish waters. Study note to the Directorate General for Internal Policies, Policy Department B: Structural and Cohesion Policies, Fisheries

Brussels

European Parliament

Published

0

Conflict exists between seals and fisheries, with seals affecting fisheries through damage to catches and gear and competition for resources. Fisheries can affect seals through accidental by-catch, and overfishing can reduce prey availability. This briefing note provides a comprehensive review of the situation in Irish waters, using existing data augmented with information from key industry stakeholders to provide a realistic and representative account of the current situation. Recommendations are outlined to aid management decisions for reducing the interactions between seals and fisheries in Ireland.