What is the Welsh Government doing to support cockle processors?
I recognise the importance of cockle fisheries to cockle gatherers, processors, and coastal communities in Wales. Since 2018, the Welsh Government has improved the management of cockle fisheries which has increased the amount of cockle gathered and the supply of cockles to processors. At the same time, great efforts have been made to conserve stocks, protect the environment, and ensure the long-term sustainability of these valuable fisheries.
The Welsh Government held a consultation on proposals for a range of new cockle fishery management measures earlier this year. The consultation response was overwhelmingly positive, and the Welsh Government is now focussing on introducing new legislation to further improve the management of cockle fisheries in 2023.