P. J. Sheehan
Question:50 Mr. Sheehan asked the Minister for the Marine when the results of the trials on alternative methods for tuna fishing will be publicised in view of the fact he promised a result in late autumn 1994. [2646/94]
Written Answers. - Tuna Fishing.
Trials have been under way in consultation with fishermen into possible alternative fishing techniques in the tuna fishery. The methods tested were:
(a) trolling — the use of a number of surface towed lines, towed from two large poles from either side of a boat;
(b) pair pelagic trawling — this involves two boats towing a pelagic net close to the surface.
A report on the results of the trials is being completed and the results will be published shortly. I understand that valuable experience has been gained in the course of these trials which showed that, in reasonable weather conditions, pair trawling produced very encouraging catch results. I expect this outcome to have positive long term implications for our continuing participation in the tuna fishery.