Plaid MEP Jill Evans and Ynys Môn Parliamentary Candidate Dylan Rees were in Holyhead on Friday to meet Anglesey fishermen. They were joined by former MEP Eurig Wyn, who is one of Plaid's candidates in the European elections in June.

The Plaid politicians said they would raise the fishermen's concerns with Rural Affairs Minister Elin Jones, in particular the lack of notice of changes to fishing areas.

Holyhead Fish Dock, left to right are: Eurig Wyn, Peter Carmichael (Solitaire Marine Services), Jill Evans MEP and Dylan Rees.

They met Peter Carmichael of Solitaire Marine Services, a local fisherman at Holyhead who employees five crew, and with local fisherman Ian Hughes. They told the Plaid politicians of the challenges they face in dealing with changing quotas and restrictions on where they can fish.

Plaid MEP Jill Evans said:

"We are on the side of the Welsh fishing industry and I was pleased to come here today and hear their concerns. It's extraordinary that we export around 140,000 tonnes of lobster and shellfish each year but import about the same quantity from North America.

"With growing demand for quality locally produced food we should be able to catch and process fish locally and then supply to shops in this country. This would be a boost for the Welsh fishing industry and I am campaigning for more support for local food production."

Plaid Ynys Môn Candidate Dylan Rees said:

"At a time of economic recession it is vital that we do all we can to support and promote small industries like this rather than causing further difficulties. This is an important industry for Anglesey and it's vital that we do all we can to retain our fishing industry here in Holyhead.

"The fishing industry faces serious challenges responding to changing quotas and restrictions on where they can fish. We must all work together to make sure that these changes are implemented sensitively so that fishermen can properly plan ahead."

Ends.