Vol. 441 No. 2
99 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for the Marine if he has sought or proposes to seek EU financial support for fishery protection in view of recent increases in EU membership and future anticipated membership increases; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Only Norway, of the four prospective member states, has any fishing rights in Irish waters. These long established rights are extremely limited and were not increased during the recent accession negotiations. The expected increase in EU membership arising from the conclusion of the accession negotiations will not, therefore, place any additional burden on Ireland's fishery protection services.
In the event of other countries proceeding with EU membership applications, the position with regard to Ireland's fishery protection burden will be kept under review.
