Vol. 544 No. 4
106 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the state of herring stocks within the Irish Fishery and Economic Zone, particularly in the Celtic Sea; if he is satisfied that fishermen are being allowed a fair share of the catch; if he is further satisfied that the licensing system that pertains for fishermen is fair; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28948/01]
There are some concerns as regards the state of herring stocks generally in Ireland's EEZ. As regards the Celtic Sea in particular, assessments of this stock in 1998, 1999 and 2000 indicated that there were no serious concerns about the stock, but a more recent assessment gave dramatically different results, suggesting that the stock has declined significantly in recent years.
As the recent assessment was considered by the scientists to be somewhat uncertain, a scientific survey was undertaken over the summer months to help clarify the status of the stock. The results of this survey are being analysed and I understand they will be available in the early part of 2002.
In so far as a share of the catch is concerned, these have been determined based on historical participation patterns and vary from area to area. In relation to the Celtic Sea herring stock in particular, Ireland is by far the principal quota holder where the percentage share is 86%.
My Department's recently published statement of strategy 2001-03 includes a commitment to undertake a review of sea fishing licensing policy and this will get under way shortly.
