Vol. 412 No. 2
56 Mrs. Barnes asked the Minister for the Marine if he will give a progress report on the pilot scheme to test the feasibility and practicality of satellite monitoring; whether this scheme will be grant-funded through the STRIDE operational programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ireland has agreed to take part in a pilot project to determine the suitability of using satellite navigation systems to establish the movements of fishing vessels. This pilot project is being undertaken by the Irish naval Service under the fisheries surveillance package which is overseen by my Department and was approved by the EC Commission to enhance Irelands sea fisheries surveillance capability.
A request seeking tenders for the supply of the necessary equipment for this pilot project was sent out to the market place. Responses are currently under evaluation. It is expected that equipment for test purposes will be in place in early 1992. This will involve placing of receiving and transmitting equipment on board a limited number of selected fishing vessels for a limited period. This scheme does not fall under the STRIDE programme.
