Vol. 470 No. 7
24 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Marine the likely developments in the Irish fishing industry over the coming 12 months; whether he envisages an expansion of our fishing fleet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19899/96]
Developments in the Irish fishing industry will be influenced by the outcome of current policy developments both nationally and at EU level. Critical decisions at EU level on improved control and conservation measures will, for example, have positive impact in the short to medium term. EU and national support for investment in the industry will continue under the Operational Programme for Fisheries with consequent benefits for improved safety quality and modernisation and for levels of landings and exports. I would also expect continued growth in the fish processing and aquaculture sectors. The scope for expansion of the fleet will continue to be influenced by existing constraints and opportunities in terms of fishing opportunities for quota and non-quota species, market factors and economic considerations. Decisions at the end of the year on the level of total allowable catches for quota species for 1997 together with an agreement on overall EU fleet capacity objectives currently being discussed by Council will in particular set the framework for developments in the catching sector over the next 12 months.
