Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:34 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Marine if he will outline the GRT of the Irish fishing fleet in each year since 1984; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - GRT of Irish Fishing Fleet.
The end of year figure for the GRT of the Irish fishing fleet as recorded by my Department for the years in question is set out in the following table.
|
Year |
Tonnage |
|
1984 |
50,258 |
|
1985 |
49,632 |
|
1986 |
53,065 |
|
1987 |
60,736 |
|
1988 |
62,510 |
|
1989 |
55,822 |
|
1990 |
48,936 |
|
1991 |
50,693 |
Within the framework of the European Community's structural policies for fleet adjustment, the Commission is seeking reductions by end-1992 of some 15 per cent on the end-1991 figure. These proposals are unacceptable and I made a strong case in this regard at the Council of Ministers in Luxembourg last week. Instead I have sought a significant increase to allow for the take-up by Ireland of under-utilised fishing opportunities. Discussions on this matter are continuing at Community level.