The Quota Management System prevents the restoration of our fish stocks and marine environment. This is because quota holders have become a powerful lobby that prevents effective protection measures being put in place, instead lobbying for maximum catch levels even when it is obvious that fish stocks are declining.

The Government has lost its ability to exercise unfettered executive decision making and catch limits are now set to maximise catches, ignoring the vital services that a healthy ecosystem provides. A new system based on strong principles is required.

The principles underpinning the Rescue Fish policy provide for abundant fish stocks, a healthy marine environment and peoples’ social and cultural needs. The overarching obligation is to maintain functioning ecosystems for future generations. The existing Quota Management System fails to meet these needs.