Vol. 526 No. 5
16 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources whether the cost of diesel fuel for fishermen has more than trebled from 10p to 32p per litre over the past two years; if his attention has been drawn to measures introduced for French fishermen in a similar predicament; and the plans he has for a compensatory package to alleviate the hardship being suffered by fishermen. [26727/00]
29 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he has concluded his assessment of possible mechanisms within his Department's remit which could alleviate the crisis facing the fishing industry, especially as a result of fuel price increases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26929/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 16 and 29 together.
I have already advised the House of the severe difficulties being experienced by the fishing industry as a result of fuel price increases. I am aware of the fiscal and social measures introduced by the French Government and other member states which the Commission is examining for compliance with state aid rules. I underlined to Commissioner Fischler and EU colleagues last week the need to assess the scope for Union action to tackle the difficulties for the EU fishing industry as a whole.
When will the Minister be in a position to indicate to the representatives of the fishing industry the form of assistance that can be given to fishermen?
As I stated previously, many of the matters concerned are a question of Estimates and so on. I hope to be in a position to respond to the industry in the not too distant future.
