Ceist:
51 Mr. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources his views on the major reduction in white fish landings; and the proposals, if any, he has to deal with the situation. [26552/98]
Written Answers. - Whitefish Landings.
Analysis of the data for whitefish landings 1995 to date, for the primary whitefish fishing period January to October shows a fairly constant level of catch over this timeframe. While there have been marginal changes in the overall level of landings from year to year, there is no pattern of significant reductions.
The key challenges for the whitefish sector are quality and continuity of supply. The whitefish fleet renewal programme is supporting the introduction of 31 new whitefish vessels into the fleet as well as investment in modern secondhand tonnage and modernisation projects. This programme is designed to deliver improved quality, competitiveness and continuity of whitefish supply, increased landings and better prices.