Vol. 574 No. 1
145 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the call made by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea for a total ban on cod fishing in the Irish Sea; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26264/03]
In the Irish Sea and elsewhere, cod is caught in association with a number of other demersal species such as whiting and haddock. Accordingly, a total ban on all cod fishing in the Irish Sea would, in effect, mean an almost complete stop to all fishing operations in that area, which would have a devastating affect on the local fishing communities concerned. The EU has brought forward proposals for recovery plans for cod in a number of areas, including the Irish Sea. Since the latest scientific advice was published by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea a number of weeks ago, the European Commission has held discussions in Brussels with both representatives of member states and the fishing industry throughout the European Union to discuss the proposed recovery plans in the context of the new scientific advice.
These discussions involved a detailed exchange of views with the Commission on a range of possible options and measures to assist the recovery of a number of cod stocks, including the Irish Sea stock. During these discussions, the Commission indicated its conclusion that a total ban on all cod fishing was not a realistic option in the circumstances and that it was examining other policy responses. I agree with the Commission's stance in this regard and I look forward to receiving specific Commission proposals in the coming weeks.
A number of steps have already been taken to promote the recovery of the Irish Sea cod stock. Since 2000, an area in the Irish Sea has been closed each year during the cod spawning season in the spring. Additional technical measures have also been introduced in recent years. In the light of the latest scientific advice, it would, in my view, be desirable to strengthen these measures which, I believe, can contribute to stock recovery. I anticipate a detailed discussion on this matter in the period immediately ahead and I will work closely with representatives of the Irish fishing industry to ensure that the recovery of the Irish Sea cod stock is achieved at the earliest possible date.
Question No. 146 answered with Question No. 127.
Question No. 147 answered with Question No. 122.
