Debt crisis for Foyle fishermen

by Laura Glenn laura.glenn@inishtimes.com CASH-STRAPPED Lough Foyle fishermen are incurring massive debts while waiting for money promised to them under the salmon-hardship scheme. Deputy Joe McHugh revealed earlier this week that fishermen operating out of Lough Foyle have yet to be paid under scheme. It was set up to provide relief for the hardship suffered by fishermen as a result of the closure of the interceptory fishery seaward of Lough Foyle and the reduction of commercial licences within the Lough. Malin fisherman Charlie O’Donnell said fishermen on Lough Foyle had been expecting a payout in line with the rest of the country. “We were told we would receive it in 2007, now it’s nearly 2008 and nothing has happened. “People have spent and borrowed money on the strength of that, assuming they were going to be paid and have now got into debt as a result-some as much as thousands. Deputy McHugh said the non-payment was “outrageous”. “I am adamant that the fishing community have once again been ignored by the Irish government. “There has been a significant drop in the number of drift and draft nets in the area, yet no money has been paid to any fisherman to date. “We have commissions recommending pay rises for ministers that do not deliver, yet the EU commission cannot provide a little relief for those who really need it. Deputy McHugh has sent a letter to EU Commissioner Joe Borg stating his concerns. “Action needs to be taken and the EU commissioner must be questioned.I find it ironic that no draft net fishermen have been paid, given that the EU has committed to further in-shore funding following the cessation of drift net salmon fishing.” Yesterday, (Wednesday) Minister Pat the Cope Gallagher indicated the government has promised to pay the compensation early in the New Year. Mr O’Donnell welcomed Deputy McHugh’s comments. “Why are we in the Foyle area not receiving our money like the rest of the country?. “All we have been getting are promises-but you can’t live on promises.”