Vol. 505 No. 4
76 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the basis on which fishing vessels known as beamers operate; the kind of licence available to them; when these licences were issued; the number in this regard; if this type of fishing causes damage to the spawning grounds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13991/99]
The vessels known as beamers fish using beam trawl nets, in accordance with sea-fishing boat licences granted pursuant to section 222B, as amended, of the Fisheries (Consolidation) Act, 1959. Certain of the licences in question, which were granted over a period of years as vessels entered the fleet, contain restrictions on the amount of time which may be spent fishing by means of beam trawls, and/or on the locations where the vessels may fish. EU fisheries law also regulates the activities of such vessels.
I have received complaints that fishing by means of beam trawls is causing damage to some fishing grounds. I intend to meet representatives of the various interests in the matter shortly, to discuss the issues involved.
