Vol. 542 No. 1
2 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the results of his discussions on 18 June 2001 with his European Union counterparts in Luxembourg; the progress which was made in favour of Irish fishermen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20969/01]
The centrepiece of the Fisheries Council in Luxembourg last June was a substantive debate on the Commission's Green Paper on future directions for the Common Fisheries Policy. The Green Paper was published in March 2001 and has been the subject of widespread consultation with stakeholders.
At the Council I welcomed the fact that the Commission's thinking reflected a number of Ireland's priorities, including sustainable development, the need to strengthen conservation policy and a level playing field in enforcement. I also welcomed the Commission's acknowledgement of the need for improved governance within the CFP.
In line with the position of the national CFP strategy group, however, I emphasised that the CFP must be aligned with social, regional and cohesion policies in the interests of coastal communities. The Green Paper focuses on the sustainability of resources, but I stressed that the social and economic aspects of sustainable development must also be addressed to ensure the viability of the fishing industry. The governance dimension of the CFP must take greater account of the wider objectives of accountability and transparency, and I urged the Commissioner and the Council to reflect these objectives setting new directions.
In line with the stated position of successive Governments, I reiterated Ireland's case for a more equitable share of resources. Together with several other ministerial colleagues, I took issue with the Commission's one dimensional approach to fleet over-capacity which looks for across the board cuts. Fleet policy, in addition to ensuring a balance between fishing effort and available resources, must also ensure the operational safety of fishermen and a competitive, economically sustainable fleet.
Additional InformationThe Commission is to present its formal proposals on CFP reform within the next few months. Substantive negotiations will begin under the Spanish Presidency next year culminating under the Danish Presidency towards the end of 2002. The key challenge for Ireland in the negotiating process is to influence the overall direction of much needed fundamental reform while maximising the national position in terms of our key priorities. I will be working with the support of the national strategy group to progress the Irish agenda in the forthcoming negotiations.
I thank the Minister for his reply. Does he agree the reaction of the industry was that it was favourably disposed towards the results of that meeting. Where do we go from here? What is the next stage in the process and how does the Minister see Irish fishermen getting a greater share of what is the largest fishing area in the European Union – the area around the shores of Ireland?
Fish stocks are limited and there is a heavy emphasis on conservation. We all accept that. If we are to get more we must take from someone else and that will not be easily done. The industry's response to our efforts to date has been quite positive. In the past Ireland has been a good negotiator and we will continue to negotiate. We started from a low base. We have a good case but are cognisant of the fact that if we are to get extra someone else will lose out.
Where do we go from there?
Our next option is negotiation and we intend to speak with all fisheries Ministers individually.
On a point of order. Will the Minister of State tell us why the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources, Deputy Fahey, is not here today? This date for marine questions was set some time ago and we already know the next date for questions.
That is not really a point of order, Deputy.
It is a matter of courtesy to the House. Will the Minister of State tell us where the Minister is today?
Unfortunately, the Minister suffered the bereavement of a close relative and had to leave the House this morning. He took part in business in the Seanad earlier. I am sure you join me in offering the Minister our deepest sympathy.
Thank you.
