I am responsible for a wide range of European Union Presidency business across the sectoral policy areas of telecommunications, energy, broadcasting, fisheries, maritime transport and maritime safety. I have commensurate chairing responsibilities for the agriculture and fisheries, transport, energy and telecommunications and education, youth and culture Council formations.
The development and take-up of broadband infrastructure and services is a key priority in the area of telecommunications and the information society, in line with the targets of the e-Europe 2005 action plan, which were reinforced by the Council of Ministers on 8 March last. I am giving particular priority in the broadcasting area to progressing a structured debate on the regulation of satellite television broadcasters, as well as advancing the review of the Television Without Frontiers directive. My priorities in the energy sector include promoting the use of renewable energy sources, increased efficiency and conservation of energy, the ongoing integration of the principle of sustainable development into energy policies and the reliability and security of energy supply for the EU.
My maritime safety priorities are progressing the proposed directive, introducing criminal sanctions for pollution offences, designating certain maritime areas as "particularly sensitive sea areas" to strengthen the protection of vulnerable areas from marine pollution incidents, introducing safeguards for seafarers and their working conditions, and progressing anti-pollution and ship security responsibilities within the remit of the European Maritime Safety Agency. In respect of the Common Fisheries Policy, I am giving priority to establishing regional advisory councils, accelerating the development of environmentally friendly fishing methods in EU fisheries and compiling recovery plans for endangered fish stocks.
I am satisfied with progress to date at Council and working group level in respect of the various dossiers for which I hold responsibility. Developments are highlighted on my Department's website, www.dcmnr.ie, and on the Irish Presidency website, www.eu2004.ie. That is the advertisement.