Kieran McCarthy MLA said: “This is a welcome development for our local fishing industry.
“The industry must however been given more support by our Executive. This is one of the toughest professions and it can be very hard to make a living in it. Those who work in this sector put their lives on the line on a daily basis. They deserve the assistance that befits their efforts.
“The pressure will be on Michelle Gildernew when she goes to Brussels this month to take part in the important fishing council negotiations. We all hope she can land a strong catch for Northern Ireland.
“There has been massive strain placed on our fishing industry in recent years. Lets hope that devolution can help this industry, upon which many of our coastal towns depend.”
ENDS