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Fishing Fleet Protection.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2004

Tuesday, 24 February 2004

Ceisteanna (238)

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

337 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which the fishing fleet continues to provide an adequate living for those involved in the fishing industry, having particular regard to catch restrictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6094/04]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Ireland's national quotas for 2004 show a 7.8% overall growth, in volume terms, on the equivalent figure for 2003. While this figure includes a modest reduction in the whitefish and shellfish quotas, from 37,635 tonnes in 2003 to 36,005 tonnes in 2004, it includes a significant 10.6% increase in the pelagic quotas this year. In addition, the quotas of whitefish and shellfish available to the Irish fishing fleet in 2004 exceed the landings figure for the fleet in 2002, the latest year for which figures are available. Taking account of this and the trend in pelagic quotas specified earlier, the outlook for the sector in 2004 is for a modest increase in overall fish landing this year. Assuming no reduction in average prices achieved for this catch, a similar figure will also apply in value terms.

The catching sector together with associated processing industries onshore, continue to make a major contribution to employment and income in our coastal regions. It is my policy to maximise these economic and social benefits within a framework aimed at ensuring stability and sustainability in the industry going forward.

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