John Perry
Question:28 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he has published comprehensive guidelines on the licensing of sea fishing vessels to ensure transparency. [12367/99]
Written Answers. - Sea Fishing Vessels.
Licensing of sea fishing vessels is governed by section 222B (as amended) of the Fisheries (Consolidation) Act, 1959. The key objective of licensing policy is to ensure the conservation and rational exploitation of available fish stocks, consistent with Ireland's legal obligations under the Common Fisheries Policy in relation to fleet capacity, fishing effort and conservation parameters. It is the basic requirement of fishing boat licensing policy, reflecting mandatory EU fleet policy, that a licence may only be granted for the introduction of a new vessel where the applicant undertakes to remove capacity at least equal to the tonnage and engine power of the boat to be introduced.
The principles and criteria of sea fishing licensing policy have been publicly articulated on numerous occasions, in replies to questions in the House, responses to particular inquiries and other public statements. In that context, I have already confirmed to the House my intention to publish comprehensive guidelines on the licensing process, procedures and criteria in the interests of maximum transparency. My Department has circulated to the representative organisations of the fishing industry an outline statement of licensing policy for sea fishing vessels which will be elaborated into a comprehensive statement of policy, criteria and procedures. I have asked the Department to expedite its work in this regard with a view to finalising and publishing the document as soon as possible.