asked the Minister for Fisheries if he will accede to the recent request made by the Workers Union of Ireland, representing deck hands on Irish trawlers, for an expansion of Bord Iascaigh Mhara to ensure that the EEC's fishing plans will benefit the Irish fishing industry.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bord Iascaigh Mhara.
2.
I have received suggestions for the reorganisation of An Bord Iascaigh Mhara from the Workers Union of Ireland on behalf of its members employed by the board. These suggestions are being examined.
Would the Minister say whether he is favourably disposed to the idea that Bord Iascaigh Mhara should be given greater power to expand our pitiably underdeveloped fishing fleet? Would the Minister agree that through the years private capital has not been able to provide, or has not bothered to provide, the fleet needed? In those circumstances will he, on behalf of the State, play a bigger part in the development of our fishing fleet?
We had a very constructive meeting a few weeks ago with the representatives of the Workers Union of Ireland, who represent employees on the staff of the board. Many constructive suggestions emerged. One positive result is that the board now will embark on a new training and educational programme for sea fishermen at all levels, at deck-hand and skipper level. It is my view that it is in this area the real thrust by the State organisation can be made.
I agree that the extension of training facilities is badly needed but would the Minister not agree that our experience over the last 50 years has shown that private capital has not been able to provide a fishing fleet adequate for our needs, particularly since we joined the EEC? Does the Minister agree that he will have to examine this question anew with a view to injecting some State capital?
In regard to the catching aspect I feel strongly that it is essentially an individual type of operation and that the experience of direct State participation in catching activities is not good. That applies across the board throughout the world and is not based on any ideological like or dislike.
Does the Minister not agree that our biggest opponents in catching fish around our coast are State-subsidised and State-controlled fishing industries?
They are not catching any fish within 200 miles of the coast at present; they are excluded.
I would not be too sure about that. There is no penalty for such an offence.
We are bringing in legislation to deal with that.
The Minister should bring it in very quickly.
I will.