asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the fishing rights that Spain has within this country's 200 mile exclusive fishery limit.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Spanish Fishing Rights.
16.
Under the terms of the 1964 London Fisheries Convention Spain has the right to fish in certain areas in the six to 12 mile zone off the west and south-west coasts of Ireland.
Since the extension of fishing limits to 200 miles by Community member states on 1st January, 1977, Spain has been allocated fish quotas autonomously by the Community on the basis of Council regulations. These quotas, a part of which can be taken in the Irish zone, are only for hake and its by-catches. The Council regulations specify that Spanish vessels fishing in the waters of Community member states must be licensed by the Community. Only a limited number of boats are licensed to fish at any one time in the fishing zones of member states.
As a result of legislation introduced on 1st January, 1977, is it true that the Spanish have no rights whatsoever within our 200 mile limit?
It is true that the European Community take the view that the extension to 200 miles supersedes the reference I have agreed to, but, nonetheless, negotiations are continuing with the Spanish in relation to a framework agreement.
I understand that a number of licences have been granted by the EEC to Spain and I should like the Minister to tell the House how many such licences there are in existence.
That goes beyond what the Deputy asked me in the question. I do not have the figures.
In view of the blatant degree of poaching being carried out by the Spaniards—so far this year there have been 11 convictions—would the Minister consider withdrawing the concession that has been given?
I can assure the Deputy that the Government are concerned that no final agreement will be made with Spain, or any other third country, until the internal fishing regime is determined to protect our own interests. I will pass on to the Minister for Fisheries the Deputy's concern about this matter. I am not aware of the number of licences.
They are getting exceptionally generous treatment and are abusing the privileges given to them.