The Cornish Fish Producers Organisation welcomed Stephen Morgan MP, Fisheries Minister, to Newlyn this week for a packed visit showcasing the diversity and importance of Cornwall’s fishing and seafood industry.

Hosted by the CFPO with the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations, the visit brought together fishermen, seafood businesses, young industry representatives and senior Defra and MMO officials and local MP Andrew George. Taking place shortly after changes in Government leadership, the visit provided an important early opportunity to reset the political focus on fishing and set out a stronger vision for supporting the sector.

The programme began with a seafood dinner with industry representatives, followed by a 5am visit to Newlyn Fish Market. The Minister saw a wide range of species landed by inshore and offshore vessels, including bluefin tuna and octopus, before viewing the online auction operated by W. Stevenson & Sons. 

Andrew Pascoe, CFPO Board member and blue fin tuna permit holder informing the Minister about the opportunities in the emerging blue fin tuna fishery.

CFPO Chairman and Managing Director of W Stevensons & Sons, Paul Trebilcock, demonstrating the online fish market and the wide range of buyers and demand for Cornish seafood.

The CFPO also presented the work of the newly launched Cornwall Fisheries Science Board and demonstrated its octopus sampling programme.

Emily Theobald, CFPO Science and Policy Lead, running through the octopus market sampling science project initiated by the Cornwall Fisheries Science Board. 

The Minister met businesses from across the seafood supply chain, including buyers, processors, shellfish merchants and the hospitality sector. These discussions demonstrated the quality and diversity of the seafood produced by the Cornish fleet, the work underway to grow domestic markets and the strong links between fishing, tourism and hospitality. 

Saul Astrinsky from Cornwall Fish Direct on supplying high quality Cornish fish into the local hospitality markets in the height of summer tourism season.

They also highlighted the importance of delivering an effective UK EU SPS agreement to streamline exports, alongside continued efforts to increase demand for Cornish seafood within the UK.

Will Harvey of Harvey’s Shellfish with a fair size Crawfish on show for MP Andrew George and the new Minister.

Back on the quayside, representatives of the Young Fishermen Network presented the YFN manifesto and explained the work being undertaken to recruit, retain and support the next generation of fishermen. 

James Roberts, CFPO Board member, and Matilda Philips, YFN Coordinator, getting their latest signature from the Minister on the ‘Sign the Buff’ campaign.

The Minister then visited the Crystal Sea, an offshore twin rig trawler, where he heard about the importance of Cornwall’s diverse fleet and how both inshore and offshore vessels are integral to a sustainable future. Discussions focused on the importance of science, evidence and industry collaboration in developing effective fisheries and marine management.

Skipper/owner/CFPO Vice Chairman David Stevens onboard the Crystal Sea. 

The programme concluded with a roundtable at the CFPO offices. Discussions focused on progress in delivering the Cornish Fishing Strategy, underpinned by the True Value of Seafood to Cornwall report; the need to reset marine spatial prioritisation so fishing can remain viable amid growing pressures on marine space; the impact of high fuel costs and the case for government support, particularly where neighbouring EU fleets are benefiting from financial assistance; and ensuring the new Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund provides targeted support for fishing businesses and coastal communities as the fund takes shape in the next financial year.

A fine Cornish sardine breakfast served by the excellent Argoe restaurant owner, Rich Adams. 

Chris Ranford, CFPO Chief Executive, said:

“Cornwall is one of the best places in the country to understand the full net to plate story. In a short visit, the Minister saw fish being landed, sold, processed and served, while meeting the people whose work supports jobs, food security and thriving coastal communities. Cornwall has a diverse fleet, outstanding seafood and a clear strategy for the future. We now need strong political leadership, fair marine planning and investment that reaches fishing businesses and coastal communities.”

Fisheries Minister Stephen Morgan said:

“It has been invaluable to spend time on Newlyn’s quayside and hear directly from those who work here. You can see straight away how central fishing is to life here, not just for those out at sea but for the wider community, merchants, processors and restaurants that all depend on the port’s success.

“I will make sure the voices I’ve heard today help to shape a future where Newlyn’s fleet can continue to thrive.”

Mike Cohen, CEO of the NFFO, Fisheries Minister Stephen Morgan and Chris Ranford CEO CFPO hosted a round table with the Minister to wrap up the visit. 

Paul Trebilcock, CFPO Chairman, said:

“We are proud of what the industry contributes to Cornwall, but fishermen are operating under growing financial and spatial pressures. We hope the visit marks the beginning of a strong working relationship with the new Minister and a renewed government focus on helping fishing businesses remain viable and continue producing high quality seafood.”

Mike Cohen, NFFO Chief Executive, said:

“With new political leadership in place, there is a real opportunity to reset the Government’s approach to fishing. The industry needs policies that protect space to fish, support business viability and recognise fishing as an essential part of the UK’s food security and coastal economy. The NFFO looks forward to working constructively with the Minister to achieve that.”

The CFPO looks forward to continuing its work with the Minister, Defra and the MMO to support a strong and sustainable future for fishing.