Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 December 2018
200. Deputy Pat The Cope Gallagher asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the way in which he will ensure the economic sustainability of the fishing fleet in view of some of the proposed reductions in key stocks, for example, 32% in nephrops and other stocks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52447/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe annual TAC and Quota negotiations are always a challenge and this year will be no different. While the process for deciding TAC levels concludes in December, our preparation begins much earlier. My aim in all of these negotiations is always, in consultation with the stakeholders, to ensure that we have a profitable and sustainable fishing industry that will continue to benefit our coastal communities.
I share the deputies concern about a number of the proposals including Nephrops, our second most important stock. I am always conscious of the immediate impacts the decisions taken at the December Fisheries Council have for so many communities around our coast. This is why I believe the advance preparation should be as comprehensive and inclusive as possible involving my own Department as well as Bord Iascaigh Mhara and the Marine Institute, all industry representatives and the Environmental Pillar. As part of this, I launched a public consultation as part of our Sustainability Impact Assessment, which went before the Oireachtas. This process is invaluable and helps me identify the key areas of concern.
Discussions have also taken place with many parties on issues in relation to December Council. There are high level meetings with the Commission, the Presidency and other Member States as part of the preparation for the December Fisheries Council and a number of important technical meetings. I also engaged with a number of my Ministerial colleagues at Agriculture & Fisheries Council in November. These meetings help me to understand the priorities of other Member States and also gauge where Ireland can build relationships to help us deliver our priorities at the December Council.
I endeavour to ensure that I am comprehensively prepared for all potential issues discussed at December Council. Where cuts are proposed we must ensure that they are justified by the scientific advice and that the advice from ICES is being applied correctly by the Commission and in a fair and consistent manner.
I can assure the Deputy that Ireland is well prepared and I will do my utmost to ensure that the final outcome is one that is good for the industry and the long term sustainability of the stocks.
