asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry the steps that he is prepared to take, pending agreement on a common EEC fisheries policy, to offset the present calamitous state of the Irish fishing industry, both by national aids and by seeking restrictions on imports of supplies from outside the Community which disrupt market conditions here.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fisheries Policy.
1.
, Cavan-Monaghan): I am currently familiarising myself with the problems confronting our fishing industry which I know is experiencing some difficulties at present.
I am aware that my predecessor promised to introduce some aids for the industry and in particular a temporary fish price support subsidy. This matter is being considered by the Government and an early decision is expected.
As regards the restriction of imports from non-EEC countries this is a matter for resolution by the Community as a whole. I can assure the Deputy that it is my intention to press at EEC level for adequate protection mechanisms for the Community market against low cost imports. Discussions are proceeding on the EEC Commission's proposal for a new regulation reviewing the common organisation of the market in fishery products including the provisions governing trade arrangements with third countries. It will be my Department's objective to ensure that appropriate adjustments will be made to the Community's import regime which will guarantee in the long-term that fishery products will not be imported in a manner likely to disturb the balance of the Community market. In the short-term I will avail of every opportunity to press for stronger import controls under the existing regulations.
I realise that it is early days for the Minister but I should like to ask him if he is satisfied that the measures taken with regard to price supports and with regard to arrears in boat repayments, coupled with the retirement age for fishermen of 50, are as far as one could reasonably be expected to go at the moment to aid the fishing industry? If he is not satisfied with that will the Minister list any new measures he intends to take? Has the Minister discovered any new means which may now be taken to restrict the import of supplies of fish from outside countries into the EEC?
(Cavan-Monaghan): As I have informed the Deputy the package which he proposed is being considered and, in my opinion, it should improve the position considerably.
Will the Minister give an assurance to the House that the package proposed will be implemented?
(Cavan-Monaghan): The matter is being brought before the Government and it is a matter for them to decide.
I was under the impression that the previous Government had approved these measures. Is there a danger that the new Government may disapprove of them now?
(Cavan-Monaghan): I do not anticipate any danger but the matter must be cleared by the Government.