Norway has had two previous referendums on EU-membership, in 1972 and 1994. The association’s negative position was decisive in both referendums.
This week, the fish association stated that Norway needs a new debate on EU-membership if Iceland becomes EU’s 28th member. According to the association’s leader, Reidar Nilsen, it is important to clarify the consequences an Icelandic membership would have on Norwegian relations with the EU.
– It would have large consequences for the Norwegian fish industry if fishery giant Iceland suddenly is on the opposite side of the negotiation table when Norway discusses fishery issues with the EU, Nilsen says to newspaper Finnmarken.
It is also a question of competitiveness. If Iceland is in the European market without tax on their products, it would negatively influence the competitiveness of Norwegian companies.
However, it is not certain that the fish association will change its view on EU-membership even if Iceland becomes a member. The most important task now is to clarify the consequences, the fishery representatives say.
The Norwegian Fishing Boat Owners Association goes even further. Audun Maråk in the association says that if Iceland starts negotiations with EU, then Norway should strongly consider joining these membership negotiations .
