Vol. 551 No. 2
32 Mr. Sheehan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the steps he intends to take to ensure that the social, cohesion and regional policies enshrined in the treaties are given full effect in the Common Fisheries Policy review. [9995/02]
It is a fundamental tenet of Ireland's negotiating position that the Common Fisheries Policy must take account of the social and economic dimension of fisheries. We will continue to push for full recognition of the social and regional dimension in the negotiations on the Commission's formal proposals on CFP reform which are expected shortly.
The socio-economic dimension of fisheries policy has featured strongly in the debate on the Commission's Green Paper. In line with the position of the national CFP strategy review group, I have underlined to Commissioner Fischler and the Council that the CFP must be aligned with social, regional and cohesion policies to safeguard the interests of coastal and fishing regions. I have been joined by a number of EU colleagues in emphasising that the Commission's focus on the sustainability of resources must be balanced by recognition of the social, economic and safety aspects of sustainable fisheries development. We believe that the Commission's thinking, as flagged in the Green Paper, is significantly deficient on these critical dimensions.
To influence the Commission's thinking and that of other member states, I have worked with like-minded colleagues in Europe to highlight the socio-economic dimension of fisheries policy. Ireland, France, Spain, Italy, Greece and Portugal presented a set of common conclusions to the Commissioner and other member states last December. This common strategic approach is being maintained in the interests of driving the socio-economic and safety agenda. I stress that this tactical alliance does not extend to all aspects of CFP reform. Ireland will vigorously negotiate and defend our strategic priorities in relation to the Hague Preference, the Irish Box and access to resources generally where we are likely to part company with Spain and France in particular.
I cannot agree with the Minister that the future for fisheries in this country is bright. Is he aware that since Ireland joined the EU, optimism of coastal communities along the entire seaboard has been eroded? The Common Fisheries Policy is one of only two common policies in the EU yet it operates contrary to social and cohesion policies. This is extremely apparent from the outcome of the December Fisheries Council where the European Commission backed bigger member states in trying to take away the small piece of cake which Ireland had in the Hague Preference. Can the Minister give an assurance that the fisheries policy being drafted will aid Ireland to obtain a greater slice of the European fisheries cake? What will be done to ensure fish stocks are maintained? If the EU Commission does not adopt a policy to preserve stocks, the north Atlantic Ocean will be denuded of fish within ten years. The Spaniards, French and Portuguese can sweep up as much fish as they like in our waters and return to their countries loaded to the gunnels.
The Deputy should ask a question.
There will be nothing left for Irish fishermen because the stock will be completely decimated. What steps is the Minister taking to ensure that will not happen?
There is no doubt all fish stocks are in decline. The Government has led the push for more technical conservation measures and for the first time the EU Commission and our member state colleagues have adopted a series of measures to increase mesh sizes, close spawning areas and so on. A sincere effort is being made to put a stronger conservation policy in place.
I agree with the Deputy there is constant pressure on stocks from various EU fleets. We have attempted to ensure proper controls are put in place in Irish waters for all fleets, including our own, and we have always had a responsible attitude towards the need for control and conservation. That will continue to be our policy.
Will the Minister explain why he has introduced a regulation that penalises fishermen with small, open boats by charging them for tonnage? It will decimate coastal communities and drive out of business many decent people who have fished all their lives. What is the logic behind the regulation?
I replied to this question earlier but I will be happy to explain to the Deputy the positive elements of this scheme. It is attracting serious fishermen into the industry in a proper way rather than driving them out of business.
How can they be attracted when it will cost them €40,000 to obtain a licence?
