asked the Minister for the Marine his reaction to the decision by Brussels that the Irish fishing fleet must be cut by 16 per cent by 1991; his views on whether we need an increase in our gross registered tonnage; and the plans he has to achieve this.
Written Answers. - Irish Fishing Fleet.
27.
I am very seriously concerned about developments at Community level which may affect the size of the fleet and I am determined to ensure that these developments will not retard the proper expansion of the fishing industry. The present position is as follows:
Decisions taken in November 1987 at Community level within the framework of the Multi-Annual Guidance Programme Regulation (No. 4028/86) adopted in 1986 require all member states to reduce on a phased basis by 1991 their gross registered tonnage by 3 per cent as compared with the end 1984 level. The decision in Ireland's case is subject to further consultations between the Irish authorities and the Commission.
Discussions are proceeding with the Commissioners on the interpretation of these decisions and I am not in a position at this point to indicate in any precise way the implications for the overall size of the Irish fishing fleet. It is clear, however, that compliance will require some reduction perhaps in the size of the fleet.
I should make it clear however that failure on our behalf to adequately comply with Community requirements in relation to the size of the fleet could put in jeopardy EC financing of the purchase of new vessels, the modernisation of existing vessels and indeed aid for other fishing programmes.