Derek Thomas, the prospective Conservative MP for West Cornwall and The Isles of Scilly, welcomed George Eustice MP to the Fishermen’s Mission in Newlyn to meet local fishermen and discover how local shell fishermen have been affected by the recent storms.
There was a good representation from throughout Cornwall including fishermen from Newlyn, Porthleven, Cadgwith, Newquay and Padstow.
As well as losing valuable days at sea, these fishermen, an important part of the local economy, have also lost significant amounts of pots and other gear in the storms. Additionally they face the prospect of further lost fishing days, as they have to search for, retrieve and repair what equipment they can.
Mr. Eustice listened intently as the fishermen eloquently and professionally made their case for Government support in these challenging times. Their concern for the future of their businesses and the welfare of their crews was evident.
Mr. Eustice said: “This was a really interesting meeting and I will be taking what I have learned here today back with me to Westminster. We are currently looking at the damage done to our fishing industry and how we can help. I hope to have something positive to announce in the near future.”
Derek Thomas said: “I asked George to meet with these fishermen when I became aware of the crisis that shell fishermen in Newlyn are facing. It is important that the fishermen can impress upon Government Ministers in person the importance of our local fishing industry and how the recent storms have created unprecedented difficulties for it. I would also like to go on record and congratulate Keith Dickson and his team at the Mission for the excellent work they are doing to support our local fishermen in these difficult times and for their generous hospitality. I have decided to organize a fundraising event to help them with their work, to take place at the Mission on April 23rd. I will announce further details shortly on my website www.derekthomas.org.”
More information on the Fishermen’s Mission and how you can donate go to http://www.fishermensmission.org.uk.
For further information please contact Derek Thomas on:
Mobile: 07974 797754
Email: [email protected]
Office: 01736 366851