Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 25 Nov 1999

Vol. 511 No. 5

Written Answers. - Fishing Fleet Modernisation.

Michael Ring

Question:

31 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the success of the vessels which were grant aided under the modernisation of the white fish fishing fleet in fishing for non-quota species, for example, blue ling, grenadiers and scabbard; and the commerciality of these species for the fishermen involved. [24658/99]

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

The whitefish fleet renewal programme which I launched in June 1998 supports up to £60 million investment in the fleet involving some £15 million in grant aid. Contracts for new vessels under the programme vessels were signed in March 1999 and new vessels are due to come on stream during 2000 when the new vessels will commence targeting these species.

Under the programme for the renewal of the whitefish fleet, strong emphasis is put on developing non-quota opportunities including blue ling, grenadiers and scabbard. In line with the terms of the programme, it is envisaged that the larger new whitefish vessels will actively participate in developing national track record in the non quota deepwater species. Two vessels from the existing fleet were quite successful last year in targeting greenland halibut, redfish and grenadiers.

I also provided funding for BIM to carry out fishing trials on deepwater non quota species. The trials to date show that successful commercialisation of deepwater non quota species is achievable. These trials are set to continue in 2000, targeting a variety of fishing grounds and non-quota species. I am confident that the programme will generate further incremental increases in Irish landings of deepwater non quota species which have increased from 1,000 tonnes in 1990 to 3,000 tonnes in 1998.