It is a fundamental tenet of Ireland's negotiating position that the Common Fisheries Policy must take account of the social and economic dimension of fisheries. We will continue to push for full recognition of the social and regional dimension in the negotiations on the Commission's formal proposals on CFP reform which are expected shortly.
The socio-economic dimension of fisheries policy has featured strongly in the debate on the Commission's Green Paper. In line with the position of the national CFP strategy review group, I have underlined to Commissioner Fischler and the Council that the CFP must be aligned with social, regional and cohesion policies to safeguard the interests of coastal and fishing regions. I have been joined by a number of EU colleagues in emphasising that the Commission's focus on the sustainability of resources must be balanced by recognition of the social, economic and safety aspects of sustainable fisheries development. We believe that the Commission's thinking, as flagged in the Green Paper, is significantly deficient on these critical dimensions.
To influence the Commission's thinking and that of other member states, I have worked with like-minded colleagues in Europe to highlight the socio-economic dimension of fisheries policy. Ireland, France, Spain, Italy, Greece and Portugal presented a set of common conclusions to the Commissioner and other member states last December. This common strategic approach is being maintained in the interests of driving the socio-economic and safety agenda. I stress that this tactical alliance does not extend to all aspects of CFP reform. Ireland will vigorously negotiate and defend our strategic priorities in relation to the Hague Preference, the Irish Box and access to resources generally where we are likely to part company with Spain and France in particular.