Ivor Callely
Question:280 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Marine the current situation regarding fishing nets; the implications, if any, in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11437/97]
Written Answers. - Fishing Gear.
Mesh size criteria for fishing gear are laid down in EU Regulation 3094/86. There have been no recent changes to these criteria in ICES Areas VI and VII, the zones of key interest to Irish fishermen. Revised mesh size criteria in relation to static fishing gear were laid down in EU regulation 3071/95 and will come into force next year.
Further proposals for enhanced technical conservation measures, which were taken forward substantially during the Irish Presidency — and which relate in part to fishing gear parameters— continue to be progressed at EU level and are the subject of ongoing consultation between the Department and the fishing industry.
Copies of the regulations currently in force are being forwarded to the Deputy.