Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 Sep 1997

Vol. 480 No. 6

Written Answers - Fishing Gear Destruction.

Michael Ring

Question:

118 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the action, if any, he will take in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo whose equipment has been destroyed for the second time in 12 months by large trawlers entering the 12-mile zone at Porturlin Bay, Ballina, County Mayo; and whether protection and compensation will be forthcoming. [14821/97]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Dr. Woods):

I can confirm to the Deputy that the Department's sea fishery officer in the north west region is actively investigating the incident in question within the framework of the code of practice for inshore fishermen and trawlermen which was introduced to minimise the risk to local fishing gear from trawling activities and to facilitate compensation in cases of verifiable gear losses.

The code of practice has been effective in substantially reducing the levels of lost and damaged gear. The Killybegs Fishermen's Organisation and the North West Lobstermen's Association were involved in its negotiation and supported its introduction as a useful mechanism for resolution of such problems as they occur at local level.