asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if he is aware of the growing threat to fishing activity caused by debris from oil and gas exploration activity off the Irish coast, and particularly in the Irish Sea; and if he will seek to draw up a code of conduct similar to that which exists in the UK, and preferably similar to that which exists in the Inner Moray Firth, to regulate such activity, and to provide for compensation where such is deemed necessary.
Written Answers. - Threat to Fishing.
479.
I am concerned that any increase in exploration activity for oil and gas off the Irish coast could affect fishing activities.
A comprehensive code of conduct already exists in this country under the aegis of the Department of Energy entitled "rules and procedures for offshore petroleum exploration operations". My Department are seeking the inclusion of additional regulations in this operation manual aimed at further decreasing the threat to fishing activities from debris discharged at sea from vessels servicing the rigs.
In Britain a scheme to cover compensation for fishermen funded by offshore oil and gas operators is operated by the Fishermen's Federation. I am looking at the possibility of having a similar scheme introduced here.