Vol. 486 No. 3
108 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the proposals, if any, he has to introduce a financial aid package for fishermen whose viability is at risk due to the prolonged period without fishing as a result of the weather conditions of 1997 and who have thereby incurred financial losses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2832/98]
109 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the fishing fleet operating from Kilmore Quay had to remain in port in view of the stormy weather on the south-east coast for prolonged periods during 1997; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that fishermen have been unable to meet commitments to financial institutions as a result of this situation; if he will provide an aid package to fishermen affected in this way; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2517/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 108 and 109 together.
I am open to considering any substantiated case for assistance made by fishing organisations for losses incurred because of bad weather of exceptional severity and duration in light of Met Éireann weather data and within the parameters of EU legislation. Under EU state aid rules, approval for assistance to the fishing sector must be obtained from the Commission which has previously confirmed that EU funding is not available to compensate for bad weather and that it opposes similar national schemes.
