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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 23 Jun 1999

Vol. 506 No. 6

Written Answers. - Fishing Industry Development.

P. J. Sheehan

Question:

30 Mr. Sheehan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the plans, if any, he has to enable the trawler fleet to engage in fishing for non-quota species including black scabbard, blue ling and grenadiers. [15972/99]

The sustainable development of the Irish fishing industry depends, among other matters, on the development of alternative methods of fishing and of diversification of fishing effort towards non-quota species.

Under the programme for the renewal of the whitefish fleet, strong emphasis is put on developing non-quota opportunities including black scabbard, blue ling and grenadiers. Vessels availing of grant aid and tax incentives under the programme must include in their catch projections a minimum of 30 per cent non-quota species. In line with trends elsewhere, it is envisaged that the larger new whitefish vessels under the programme for the renewal of the whitefish fleet will actively participate in developing national track record in the non-quota deep water species.

I have also provided funding for BIM to carry out fishing trials on deep water non-quota species such as Greenland halibut, black scabbard, blue ling, orange roughy and grenadiers. The trials to date show that successful commercialisation of deep water non-quota species is achievable. These trials are set to continue this year and in 2000, targeting a variety of fishing grounds and non-quota species.

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