Common Fisheries Policy Negotiations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 June 2013

Tuesday, 18 June 2013

Questions (464)

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

464. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has met with Iascairí Intíre na hÉireann or if he will give an undertaking to meet Iacairi Intire na hEireann in view of the recent EU discussions on common fisheries policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29395/13]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

As you will be aware, the Irish EU Presidency recently concluded its work on securing agreement on CFP reform, which had been identified as a priority for the Presidency. The agreement, concluded after months of complex negotiations with the European Parliament, will be of significant benefit to all fisheries groups as it places the concept of long term sustainability at the core of European fisheries policy. This radical reform will support the rebuilding of fish stocks in our waters as Total Allowable Catches (TACs) and quotas are set to deliver maximum sustainable yield by 2015, where possible and by 2020 for all stocks and the wasteful practice of discarding fish is phased out. The changes once implemented will mean, real, meaningful reform of the Common Fisheries Policy and will determine European fisheries policy for the next decade and beyond.

I am informed that this group have previously met with Bord Iascaigh Mhara, who are responsible for development of the seafishing sector. However, BIM advise that there has been no meeting since the issue was previously raised by the Deputy last September. BIM staff work closely with all players in the sector to promote the development of the fishing and seafood industries. If the group wish to have further discussions to explore areas of interest or concern with BIM a further meeting may be arranged at the request of the group setting out the issues they wish to discuss. Officials from my Department would also be available to meet with a delegation from Iascairí Intíre na hÉireann if there are issues that require further discussion.

I suggest that the group make contact with my office stating the specific issues they wish to discuss. Their request for such a meeting will be considered and then forwarded to the relevant officials involved, if applicable.