Vol. 397 No. 2
21 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Marine if a proposal has been recently submitted or re-submitted to his Department to re-register American vessels under the Irish flag; if he has any views on such a proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
(Limerick West): My Department, in February 1989, issued limited permits to an American backed company for two vessels to carry out exploratory fishing for the period 1 April 1989 to 31 December 1989. These permits were not utilised.
The company concerned have expressed continuing interest in developing certain fisheries both within and outside Irish waters. Final detailed proposals from the company are awaited. The complete proposals, when received, will be considered by me on their merits, and having regard to the best interests of the development of the Irish fishing industry.
Is the Minister aware of the widespread concern of the Irish Fishermen's Organisation and other interested parties in the system of flagging foreign ships?
(Limerick West): The permits which were issued for the period 1 April 1989 to 31 December 1989 were not utilised.
I am aware of that but can he resubmit the permits? Concern is being shown by the fishermen's organisation at this type of practice.
(Limerick West): The final detailed proposals from the company are awaited. When they are with me and my Department they will be examined on their merits.
May I ask the Minister if the only company that made a submission to the Department of the Marine is a company which proposes basing itself in Kilrush? Is he aware that the particular gentleman who has made that application was recently before the courts and came in for serious condemnation by the judge who examined his case?
(Limerick West): I am not in a position to give details of that type of information.
