FISHING representatives in Newlyn have been speaking out over the proposed protection zones around the coastline.
The Cornish Fish Producers' Organisation has called on fisheries minister Richard Benyon to protect the industry.
Its chief executive officer Paul Trebilcock has warned that proposed Marine Conservation Zones – which could cover Mount's Bay, Land's End and St Ives Bay – may put entire fishing communities at risk.
He said a balance should be struck between the needs of fishermen and the protection of precious underwater environments. "Given the excellent status of our marine environment alongside our diverse fishing fleet, we cannot be too far from that balance," said Mr Trebilcock.
The CFPO has a seat on the Finding Sanctuary project, which is consulting a wide range of groups on the plans from fishermen and environmentalists to harbour authorities and sailing clubs. But industry bosses are frustrated their voices aren't being heard.
"Sometimes it feels as if the fishing industry is being obstructed in its efforts to engage with this process, especially if it disagrees with the Finding Sanctuary assumptions or its perception of the impacts of fishing activity," added Mr Trebilcock.
"We will continue to defend the fishing industry's interests at Finding Sanctuary, as well as at a national level through the MPA Fishing Coalition."
The conservation zones, which will be set out by the end of 2012, aim to protect marine habitats and species.
Finding Sanctuary project manager Tom Hooper said the map outlining the possible areas to target was a positive step in defining the zones and he praised the efforts of those taking part in discussions.
"We are now close to meeting all of our ecological targets, but the greatest strength of this network is how it has been shaped collaboratively by different interests," he said.
"More work remains to be done over the next few months before we make our final submission to Government."
article copyright THE CORNISHMAN