Vol. 467 No. 7
437 Mr. R. Burke asked the Minister for the Marine the way in which he proposes to make the EU Commission's proposals to cut the European fishing fleet an issue for Ireland's Presidency of the EU in view of the devastating effect this proposal would have on the Irish fishing sector. [14653/96]
443 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Marine if he has set a percentage cut in the Irish fishing fleet that the Government is willing to accept in its negotiations with the EU. [14408/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 437 and 443 together.
My stated position is that the Commission's proposals for percentage cuts in fishing fleet capacity are totally unacceptable in so far as they apply to Ireland's specific situation. Negotiations with the Commission will proceed on that firm basis. The agreement of new guidelines for the European fleet is on the agenda during the Irish Presidency. While our national position stands separately from our obligations as Presidency to work to advance EU business, the Deputy can be assured that we will avail of every opportunity to protect our interests.
