Vol. 498 No. 1
43 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the proposals, if any, he has by way of statutory instrument to control the taking of razor clams from Irish waters, as in the case of species including bass, herring, common sole, hake, monkfish and plaice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26544/98]
54 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources his views on the long-term prospects for the development on a sustainable basis of the razor clam fisheries on the east coast; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26545/98]
106 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the serious decline in razor clam stocks in Irish waters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26543/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 43, 54 and 106 together.
I share the Deputy's concern about the emerging razor clam fishery. My objective is to ensure that it is managed and developed in a way which ensures the conservation and sustainable exploitation of razor clam stocks.
At my request preliminary research on the fishery has been undertaken by Bord Iascaigh Mhara and the Marine Institute. Work is continuing on a range of issues, notably the extent and location of stocks and spawning season. My Department is working closely with both agencies to develop and put in place the research and management strategies required to support the sustainable exploitation in the interests of the fishermen themselves and the long-term future of the resource.
In addition, and having regard to the precautionary principle, I have asked the Department to finalise management measures, including legal controls, as a priority which will regulate fishing for razor clams and prevent excessive exploitation of stocks.
