Vol. 491 No. 4
35 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the degree to which the Irish fishing fleet has the capability to meet its requirements from the fishing grounds available; whether sufficient measures have been taken to protect these grounds from European Union or non-European Union fishermen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12303/98]
The fishing opportunities available to the Irish fishing fleet are determined by the actual fish stocks present in EU fishing waters and, for the main economic stocks, by the quotas allocated on a stock by stock basis to Ireland under the Total allowable catch and quota regimes of the Community's Common Fisheries Policy — CFP. Total allowable catches are set each year on the basis of scientific advice on the optimum catch levels to ensure the long-term sustainable exploitation of the resource.
There remains significant scope for continuing development of fishing opportunities by the Irish fleet. Some quotas remain under utilised, in particular nephrops to the south and west of Ireland and cod off our northern and western coasts. In addition, many stocks are not subject to quota including a number of valuable inshore stocks such as lobster, whelk, crabs and razor clams which are giving a high value return to Irish fishermen at present. Deepwater species and blue whiting offer further opportunities. Irish fishermen fished for blue whiting in Irish waters for the first time last year, landing around 30,000 tonnes. Excellent catches are being achieved this year as well.
I have continued to take a very strong line on the need for a strong Europe wide, strictly enforced, fisheries control regime. The viability of the resource and the interests of the Irish fishing fleet depends on compliance by all fishermen with the rules. My Department's Sea Fisheries Inspectorate works closely with the Naval Service and the Air Corps to ensure rigorous control of fishing activity and landings in our fisheries control zone. Ireland supports the ongoing development of the Community's monitoring and inspection system using the latest technology such as satellite communications. A new satellite based vessel monitoring system will be introduced on a phased basis this year. Also, in addition to the existing entry and exit reporting requirements, "real time" reporting of catches will be introduced from next month.
36 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which the number, age and tonnage of the Irish fishing fleet compares with the fleets of other European Union countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12302/98]
The profile of the Irish fishing fleet is as follows:—
|
Total Gross Registered Tonnage |
54,860 tonnes |
|
Total No. of Registered Vessels |
1,144 |
|
Average Age |
26 years |
