Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 20 Oct 1999

Vol. 509 No. 5

Written Answers. - Fishing Fleet.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

54 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the degree to which the fishing fleet meets current and future requirements in terms of tonnage and technology; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20730/99]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources

(Dr. Woods): Tonnage objectives are set for the Irish fishing fleet by the EU MGP decision for Ireland up to 2001 and a policy of 100 per cent replacement capacity for the introduction of vessels is applied to ensure conformity with those objectives. My policy for the fleet, therefore, is to facilitate vessel modernisation and upgrading within the mandatory capacity limits. To that end, the Whitefish fleet renewal programme is supporting investment in new and modern second hand boats, vessel modernisation and safety improvements. This will ensure that the Irish fishing industry can utilise the available fishing opportunities to best effect and compete effectively in terms of efficiency and technology with its EU counterparts.