Vol. 497 No. 4
80 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the policy of the Department in relation to conservation of conger eel, shark and common skate; the way in which this policy is being implemented through various agencies under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25334/98]
The three non-quota species referred to are of very limited commercial importance to Irish fishermen. Although small quantities are caught as a by-catch there are no directed conger eel, shark or common skate fisheries. In relation to catches by recreational sea anglers, a voluntary tagging programme of skate, blue shark and tope — a species of shark — is promoted by the Central Fisheries Board which maintains a data bank of results. A voluntary code of practice to protect and conserve skate has been put in place by anglers and fish caught are returned to the sea.
Conservation policy for fish stocks is generally set and regulated at EU level. EU regulations, while focusing on the conservation of the main commercial fish stocks, are also increasingly aimed at the protection of all marine biological resources. Minimum mesh sizes are laid down for all fish stocks and gear types.
At international level, a plan of action is being advanced at FAO for the conservation and management of shark, i.e. all species of shark, skate, ray and chimaera. My Department is monitoring developments in this forum.
