Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 Mar 2003

Vol. 562 No. 4

Written Answers - Fishing Industry Development.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

164 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the discussions he has had with representatives of the Irish fishing industry regarding the restrictions agreed at the December 2002 Fisheries Council meeting whereby fishing in the north-west will be allowed on only nine days of each month; the progress which has been made with regard to the clarification of issues regarding the scheme and the details associated with its implementation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6268/03]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

In the lead-up to the introduction of this scheme at the beginning of this month, detailed discussions were held with representatives of the Irish fishing industry. The purpose of these discussions was to clarify how the scheme would operate in practice. I am satisfied that this consultative process worked well and it culminated in the issue by my Department of a detailed advisory notice on implementation of the scheme. I am arranging to forward a copy of this notice to the Deputy for her information.

The Commission has indicated in the interim that it will bring forward a number of amendments to the existing scheme in light of additional consultations held with fishing industry representatives and member states. I expect to receive details of such amendments in the near future and these will again be the subject of discussions between my Department and Irish fishing industry representatives.