Vol. 409 No. 10
40 Mr. G. O'Sullivan asked the Minister for the Marine if he has any plans to improve the unsatisfactory position which exists at present in relation to the operation of the sea fishing boat licensing policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I am satisfied that the present sea fishing boat licensing policy is by and large the optimum one to follow in current circumstances having regard to European Community objectives, the state of stocks generally around our coasts and the need to protect and maintain the livelihoods of fishermen already in the industry.
I am aware of particular difficulties in certain segments of the fleet where under-capacity exists and I am reviewing policy in this regard.
