asked the Minister for the Marine the amount of the 1988 mackerel quota that remains to be filled; if he considers the present quota adequate for the further development of the industry; and if submissions have been forwarded to the European Commission for an increase of quotas for 1989 and subsequent years.
Written Answers. - Mackerel Quota.
17.
Up to 14 October 1988 a balance of 22,740 tonnes of mackerel remained available to Irish fishermen for the 1988 quota.
Within the constraints imposed by the Common Fisheries Policy, I am satisfied that this quota, which was agreed after protracted and difficult negotiations at the Council of Ministers last December, provides for the continuing development of the Irish fishing industry. The proposals on the total allowable catches and quotas for 1989 are not yet available. However officials from my Department have raised my concerns with the Commission and have participated to the fullest extent possible in the deliberations of the various scientific bodies, whose advice will form the basis of the 1989 proposals. Within the need for conservation of stocks, the development of the industry is being addressed through strengthened management procedures developed in consultation with the industry. The Deputy can be assured that I will be pressing in the negotiations in Brussels in December for the maximum quotas possible in order to allow for the continuing development of the Irish fishing industry.