North Cornwall MP Backs Young Fishermen After Port Isaac Meeting

The Liberal Democrat MP for North Cornwall, Ben Maguire, has pledged his support for the next generation of Cornish fishermen after meeting members of the Young Fishermen Network in Port Isaac.

During the visit, Ben spoke directly with young fishermen about the challenges facing the industry. Among the concerns raised were access to inshore waters within the 6 to 12 mile limit, rising costs for new entrants, and the difficulty many face when trying to secure finance to buy boats.

The meeting comes as young people across coastal communities continue trying to enter a profession that has been part of Cornwall’s heritage for centuries.

Concerns raised by young fishermen

The Young Fishermen Network recently launched a manifesto calling for stronger support for those entering the industry.

The document highlights several areas where young fishermen believe changes are needed. These include improved training opportunities, knowledge sharing between experienced fishermen and newcomers, better access to finance for boats, licences and quota, and improved management of inshore waters.

Following the meeting in Port Isaac, Ben confirmed he had signed the Young Fishermen Network pledge in support of these aims.

Parliamentary debate being pursued

The North Cornwall MP has also confirmed he is applying for a Parliamentary debate on inshore fishing.

If approved, the debate would allow coastal MPs to raise the concerns of fishermen directly with ministers in Westminster.

Speaking about the visit, Ben Maguire said:

“It was fantastic to meet with the Young Fishermen Network in Port Isaac to hear directly about the challenges young fishermen are facing. Fishing has been at the heart of our coastal communities here in Cornwall for centuries, and it is really vital that the next generation now has the opportunity to follow in those footsteps.

“Having spoken with many fishermen across my North Cornwall constituency, it is clear that young people entering the industry face a number of serious barriers. That’s why I am very proud to have signed my name to the YFN Pledge, and am also currently applying for a Parliamentary debate on inshore fishing. It’ll be a great chance for us coastal MPs to raise the concerns of fishermen directly with Ministers, to ensure their voices are properly heard in Westminster.”