Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 October 2004
46 Mr. English asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the way in which he sees the development of the fishing industry in the future having regard to the need to conserve stocks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25798/04]
View answerIn line with the Government's commitment to setting out a long-term strategy for the sustainable development of the Irish fishing industry, a policy statement on the future directions for the sustainable development of the sea fishing industry was made in June. This statement includes a plan to deliver sustainable fishing for the whitefish fleet, an infrastructural development plan, a management plan for sustainable inshore fishing fleet and outlines the priorities for Ireland within the Common Fisheries Policy. I am committed to the early achievement of these objectives.
There is clearly an over-riding EU dimension to fisheries policy and the development of national strategies in this area must have regard for the policy and strategies set out at EU level within the CFP. At EU level, I will be concentrating on two key priorities: the delivery of an effective, even-handed control policy; and, effective conservation programmes that will ensure fish stocks are managed on a sustainable basis. I will focus on rebuilding stocks so that in the medium to long-term, sustainable fishing will support and grow the economies of coastal communities dependent upon fishing.
