asked the Minister for the Marine whether he has satisfied himself that the proposed new set of fisheries control regulations to be introduced by the EC will be effective against vessels operating under flags of convenience.
Written Answers. - Fisheries Control Regulations.
14.
I take it that the Deputy is referring to the proposal recently circulated by the European Commission for the introduction of additional control measures.
The issue of quota-hopping of flag of convenience operators is a very sensitive one which causes deep resentment and frustration within the Irish fishing industry. My position on this has been consistent and quite clear. I cannot tolerate a situation where the benefit from the fishing of Irish quotas does not accrue to the Irish fishing industry and the Irish economy. I have raised that issue on a number of occasions at the Council of Fisheries Ministers and also in contacts which I have had with the Commission. I am glad to see that the Commission has accepted the seriousness of the problem and has seen fit to come up with the present proposal.
The essential thrust of the new proposal is to make for speedier and more efficient catch reporting particularly when fishing vessels land in another member state. The proposal is being discussed at working group level at present and the various implications, particularly the legal issues involved, are being considered. In the circumstances, I would not wish to prejudice this work. The Deputy can be assured, however, that the full implications of the proposal are being considered and that any additional measures which would assist in dealing effectively with the quota-hopping problem will have my full support.