Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. The committee wishes him and his officials all the best at that forthcoming Council meeting. He is correct that the expertise available to him, both from his officials and from the Marine Institute, will prove critical. The only arguments that can be sustained are those which are based on science. I am sure he has gathered that there is cross-party support with regard to whatever measures the Government feels are appropriate by way of action on the mackerel issue. It is very difficult to accept that someone might be rewarded for pillaging stocks. If beggars belief that those involved in this regard cannot see that their behaviour will lead to them suffering in the long term. Those to whom I refer are fishing to such a level that the price is being depressed. That would appear to be self-defeating and it is difficult to understand the logic involved. One could probably state that it is the result of one thing, namely, short-term greed. This matter must be dealt with and we wish the Minister well in his endeavours.

If there is no other business, we will adjourn until Thursday, 13 December next. The select committee is due to meet at 2.30 p.m. on Tuesday - instead of at the previously arranged time - to continue its deliberations on Committee Stage of the Animal Health and Welfare Bill 2012 and the Minister will be in attendance.