Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 24 Apr 1996

Vol. 464 No. 4

Written Answers. - Spanish Fishing Fleet.

Batt O'Keeffe

Question:

40 Mr. B. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for the Marine if he is concerned that one third of Spanish boats fishing within the Irish Box have had previous convictions in Irish Courts and that a sizeable proportion of these are understating their engine size by up to 100 per cent. [5933/96]

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Barrett)

I am aware that many of the vessels in the Spanish fishing fleet which fish in our waters have been previously convicted of fishery offences. However, it is also the case that vessels from other member states which fish in our waters, and indeed some of our own fleet, also have previous convictions.

As I have outlined to this House on many occasions before, Ireland has strict controls in place to ensure that all vessels operating in Irish waters comply fully with EU fishing regulations. The fisheries protection services detain all vessels suspected of being in breach of fishing regulations and prosecutions follow in every appropriate case.

The penalties under Irish law for fishery infringements are among the toughest in Europe, and reflect our resolution to safeguard fish stocks and eliminate illegal fishing activity in our waters. Since 1994, a regime of hefty fines and confiscations of nets, catch and boats has been available to Irish courts. Vessels which repeatedly commit offences are subject to severe penalties, which may include confiscation.

Our control and enforcement regime and the related penalties are paying dividends. This is reflected by the fact that while boardings have increased, proportionately, the number of vessels detained has declined. This clearly demonstrates that more and more fishermen are coming to the conclusion that illegal fishing is no longer worth the risk.

As regards the matter of engine power, concerns have been raised about some Spanish vessels. This issue is being actively pursued with the EU Commission.