Donegal fisheries and coastal communities are being 'left behind again' by government

Inishowen TD Padraig MacLochlainn says the government’s review of the National Development Plan (NDP) offers little reassurance for fishing communities or the wider maritime sector.

The Sinn Fein spokesperson on Fisheries and the Marine, Deputy MacLochlainn, says there’s no clear investment strategy for harbours, ports, seafood production, or coastal development.

“This review represents another missed opportunity to deliver for coastal communities. There is no mention of the fishing industry, no capital vision for the seafood sector, and no strategic investment to strengthen the infrastructure these communities depend on.”

“Fishing and the broader marine economy are core parts of regional life and national identity, yet they are once again invisible in this plan. Port infrastructure, harbour upgrades, marine training and processing – all of these areas require clear, targeted investment, and yet none are addressed.”

READ NEXT: Donegal gardaí require adequate resources before ‘serious consequences’

Buncrana Deputy MacLochalinn says our fishing communities face “real challenges”, from rising fuel costs to diminishing quotas and regulatory uncertainty.

“At a time when ambition and planning are urgently needed, the government has instead produced a capital review that largely recycles old commitments and avoids difficult decisions,” he added.