ONE OF Britain's largest fishing fleets has reiterated its warning that it will not sell its catch through the proposed new market in Newlyn – unless it is viable.
Harbour commissioner and W Stevenson and Sons partner, Elizabeth Stevenson, was questioned about the company's intentions by some of the fishermen attending the first open meeting for the fishing industry last week.
The meeting was called to discuss the controversial plan for a new £5million fish market before the looming deadline for funding from the European Fisheries Fund expires.
Without hesitation Mrs Stevenson repeated the company's stance: "We will not land our fish through the new market operator if we do not see it as a viable option.
"Fishermen do not feel they should be paying for offices and restaurants.
"It's not just W Stevenson and Sons saying it does not wish to put its fish there.
"There are several other boats which are also unhappy with the proposal and the charges, which may increase."
During the debate, the new harbour commissioners were criticised by the managing director of the Cornish Fish Producers' Organisation.
Paul Trebilcock said his members felt the commission lacked confidence and trust.
"The overriding factor is that we are all struggling and any additional cost is feared.
"If the market is built, who will pick up the tab if it is not viable?"
"Things have got to change, but the overwhelming feeling of our members is that we should hang on and look at what the future holds."
Frank and firm questions were also shot from the floor about the finances presented by accountants Winter Rule.
With the new fish market's break-even point predicted at £8million, some fishermen said they worried the margins were too tight.
Income
But the commission was quick to point out that there would be other potential sources of income, other than landing fees, such as renting out office and restaurant spaces.
Some were also unhappy with the chosen market operator.
Newlyn Community Interest Company, headed up by Nick Howell, John Lambourn and Robin Turner, won the tender under the last commission.
At the end of the session the audience was reminded that the commission aimed to provide the best facilities possible for the community, and of the tight deadline for grant funding, which expires on August 19.
A second consultation was held on Friday afternoon with different catching sectors encouraged to get in touch with the commission this week for further discussions.
article copyright THE CORNISHMAN