Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 20 May 1993

Vol. 431 No. 2

Written Answers. - Fishing Industry Structure.

Seán Barrett

Question:

103 Mr. Barrett asked the Minister for the Marine his views on the opinion expressed by the Irish Fish Producers Organisation, in a recent discussion document, that the fishing industry is heavily fractionalised, inefficient and in need of radical reform; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Andrews)

The main focus of the document is on the fragmentation among fishing industry organisations and in the main is addressed at members of industry itself.

Nevertheless the analysis in the document accords in many respects with my impressions of the structure of industry representation. Of course the organisation of the industry is, a matter for the industry itself. I have no wish to get involved in the internal affairs of the fishing industry.

It seems clear, however, that it may be worthwhile at this stage to review the representation structures. My good offices would be available to assist in that regard. Indeed, I would be open to consider suggestions, including the possibility of initial support which would assist in the creation of new structures.

It is in the interests of all elements of the fishing industry, including the Department of the Marine and the various State agencies involved, that a vibrant, integrated and professional industry representative structure be developed.

The document also makes some interesting comments on the State's administrative structure and relationships with the fishing industry. Again, these comments strike some chords with my own thinking. I will be reflecting further on them. It may be that a fundamental review is called for but our assessment of the factors involved is not sufficiently advanced at this stage to reach definitive conclusions in the matter.