Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 17 Feb 1998

Vol. 487 No. 3

Written Answers. - Fishing Vessel Licences.

Michael Ring

Question:

48 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will elaborate on his statement that small boats, which up to now have not been allowed licences, are now to be granted licences; and if this will include boats with out-board engines which are used for commercial fishing by inshore fishermen. [3928/98]

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

A vessel may not engage in commercial sea fishing unless it possesses a sea fishing boat licence under the Fisheries Acts, 1959 to 1997, and is entered on the register of fishing vessels established pursuant to Part IV of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1894. The only exceptions to these requirements are vessels powered by oars or vessels fishing for salmon or eels, which are subject to other regulatory requirements.

There are many smaller vessels which, while part of the fishing fleet for many years, have not, for various reasons, been licensed or registered to date. Following extensive negotiations I have secured EU approval to regularise the position of those boat owners who had applied for licences under the special scheme introduced to redress the situation. The processing of applications under the special scheme is under way and successful applicants are being issued with licences as quickly as possible.