Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 25 Mar 1999

Vol. 502 No. 5

Written Answers. - Fish Stocks.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

52 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if fish catches over the past ten years and anticipated fish stocks indicate an adequacy of supply for the foreseeable future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8682/99]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

53 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he anticipates adequate fish stocks over the next ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8683/99]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 52 and No. 53 together.

Seafish landings have grown incrementally from a level of 226,256 tonnes in 1988 valued at £83,931,782 to 307,987 tonnes in 1997, the latest year for which figures are available, valued at £144,774,096.

The fishing opportunities available to the Irish fishing fleet are determined by the actual fish stocks present in EU fishing waters and, for the main economic stocks, by the quotas allocated on a stock by stock basis to Ireland under the total allowable catch and quota regimes of the Community common fisheries policy. Total allowable catches are set each year on the basis of scientific advice on the optimum catch levels to ensure the long-term sustainable exploitation of the resource. Overall, the 1999 combined quotas for pelagic and whitefish species show an increase on the quotas set for 1989 and I am confident that adherence by fishermen to conservation and management regimes will allow for continuing sustainable development of the catching sector.

There remains significant scope for continuing development of fishing opportunities by the Irish fleet. Some specific quotas remain under-utilised, in particular nephrops to the south and west of Ireland. In addition, many stocks are not subject to quota including a number of valuable inshore stocks such as lobster, whelk, crabs and razor fish which are giving a high return to Irish fishermen at present. Deepwater species and blue whiting offer further opportunities. My Department is working closely with the Marine Institute as regards scientific advice, and An Bord Iascaigh Mhara as the development agency, to identify further fishing opportunities, to encourage continued sustainable growth and ensure the future for the industry.