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Press Release: End of the Line PDF Print E-mail

1st March, 2010

Irish Wildlife Trust show it’s the’ End of the Line’ for our fishing industry

On Thursday March 25th the IWT, along with our partners in PEW Environment and OCEAN2012, will be screening the award winning documentary 'End of the Line' to highlight one of the world’s most disturbing problems of over-fishing. This is having major local and global consequences and much of it is caused by European fishing policies.

IWT chairman Pádraic Fogarty says:

“Business as usual means that soon there will be no more fish in the sea and our vast oceans will become a dead zone, depriving communities of livelihoods and depriving future generations of the bountiful resources provided by the sea”

The IWT believes that a healthy ocean is essential for the long-term benefit of Irish society but at present unsustainable fishing practices are undermining the viability of this future. As an island nation our marine and fisheries resources are a vital component of our natural and cultural heritage. Its sustainable use is therefore an essential element in preserving our rich biodiversity and economic well-being.

  • 88% of all assessed fish stocks are estimated to be over-exploited
  • One third of assessed fish stocks are beyond ‘safe biological limits’
  • The blue-fin tuna is on the verge of being listed as an endangered species
  • 93% of North Sea cod are caught before they can reproduce
  • The EU is no longer capable of providing fish for its own people so its fishing fleets are over-exploiting seas around poor countries with the cooperation of corrupt local governments. 

This event coincides with the reform process of the Common Fisheries Policy, which is currently underway. It will take place at the Light House cinema in Smithfield in Dublin, with a complimentary reception starting at 7:30, followed by an introduction to the film by producer Christo Hird and ending with a short discussion. The views of the Federation of Irish Fishermen will also be represented at the screening. We hope you will all show your support by attending this event and showing our politicians that this issue matters to you. Tickets are now available from the Light House box office at 01-8796701.

 ENDS