Vol. 544 No. 4
127 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that, in spite of the BIM whitefish fleet quality assurance scheme of December 2000, fishing vessels are still landing over quotas of species and under size fish and that such catches are loaded into lorries for foreign destinations; and the action he intends to take in relation to this matter. [29198/01]
Significant improvement in quality standards for the Irish whitefish catching sector is a key strategic priority for BIM and my Department and is first and foremost in the industry's own commercial interest. Compliance across Europe with CFP conservation regulations, including quota, minimum size standards and gear is essential for the sustainability of fish stocks and the future of the industry itself.
Checks and controls in ports and at sea are regularly carried out on Irish and foreign vessels by my Department's sea fisheries officers and the Naval Service. The penalties under Irish law for proven non-compliance with fisheries regulations are among the most stringent in the EU.
