Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2017
1678. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on amending the existing regime pertaining to fishing boat licences that restrict inshore fishermen from engaging in marine tourism activities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28449/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by the Licensing Authority for Sea Fishing Boats that fishing boat licence conditions do not restrict inshore fishermen from engaging in marine tourism activities.
The Marine Survey Office (MSO), Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport has full responsibility for the issue of Passenger Boat Licences (e.g. vessels which offer angling/charter trips). MSO rules do not permit vessels that are entered on the Register of Fishing Boats to be licensed as Passenger Vessels. Accordingly, the matter raised is a matter for the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport.
