Bernard J. Durkan
Question:119 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which foreign trawlers have fished in Irish waters during the past 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22137/98]
Written Answers. - Foreign Trawlers.
I take it that the Deputy's question relates to the catches of fishing vessels from other member states in the Irish fisheries zone.
I should explain that this zone is not currently used as a basis for fisheries statistics, catch data or stock assessments. These data are compiled by individual member states, including Ireland, for their own fleets by reference to the ICES Fishery Zones rather than national zones.
The basis for firm estimates of catches in Irish waters by vessels from other member states is not, therefore, currently available. I am strongly of the view, however, that achieving a better level of data on all catches in Irish waters is an essential objective. The EU should develop a reliable common data base on all aspects of EU fisheries including stocks, catches, landings and sales. This is essential management information, and is particularly critical for Ireland as a coastal state with a high level of fishing activity by other member states in our waters.
Based on the data sources available, it is estimated that approximately one million metric tonnes of fish with a first sale value of some £700 million are caught annually in the Irish zone. The value of the Irish fleet catch as a component of this is over £150 million.
This is an indicative estimate only for the reasons I have outlined. I have asked my Department to work with the Marine Institute and BIM to review available data and develop methodologies which would further quantify existing estimates of catches in the Irish zone. I will also press at EU level for the development of the necessary data bases by the commission with the co-operation of all member states.