Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 April 2022
1875. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the incentives that have been provided to fishing vessels deploying selective fishing gear and techniques with reduced environment impact; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19826/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland has strongly supported the introduction of more selective fishing gear to reduce catches of juvenile fish and unwanted by-catches. In the past, fishing gear trials have been carried out in our main fisheries working in collaboration with our fishing sector. A number of changes to fishing gear and practices which demonstrate improved selectivity have been adopted at EU level following recommendations from the North West Waters Member States Group (Ireland is a key member of the Group).
From time to time, the quota system is used to incentivise the introduction of environmentally friendly fishing gear in particular fisheries or for particular types of vessels usually in advance of seeking to implement change at EU level. There are currently no incentives in place in respect of the use of selective fishing gear or using fishing techniques with reduced environmental impact. However, I continue to leave the option open.
