asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the present position regarding fishing rights in the Rockall area in view of the growing importance of this particular area for Irish fishing vessels.
Written Answers. - Jurisdiction over Rockall.
21.
Fishing rights for Irish fishing vessels depend on Irish jurisdiction over the area in question. Irish jurisdiction in relation to the maritime areas, including the fishing zone, in the region of Rockall is closely linked with the delimitation of the Continental Shelf between Ireland and Britain in that area. The Government do not accept British claims to this area and accordingly do not accept a British right to exclude Irish fishing vessels from this area. Following the outcome of the arbitration in relation to the Continental Shelf the full extent of Irish jurisdiction over its maritime areas, including those where overlapping claims now exist, can be determined.