Mr. Jerry Early:

Perhaps Mr. O'Brien could comment on that. We could perhaps broaden the discussion. As far as we are concerned, we all have our problems. However, we feel that our island - and we have all alluded to the islands at particular times - is dead on its feet. We can change things very fast by what we are proposing. Deputy Harrington spoke about aquaculture but, unfortunately, it does not work everywhere. Our geographical situation is not always suitable for aquaculture.

The same can apply to sea angling and Mr. O'Brien can explain that situation. We are hemmed in so far that we can see no way out, so we need immediate help. All stakeholders have their own concerns, which I appreciate, but as an islander in Donegal I feel that our concerns are at the bottom of the chain. It is imperative for the survival of the Donegal islands in particular - I cannot speak for the others but I am sure we all have the same concerns - that something is done to consider our proposals.

As regards aquaculture, I know different things are being proposed. There are various arguments regarding the pros and cons, but we will leave that to the scientists, although I have my own opinion. The situation must be carefully managed so that aquaculture will not impinge or endanger the shellfish sector or the shoreline sector, including periwinkles. There is a big grey area which must be examined.

On our island aquaculture may be the way, although it is not our preferred route. We could work in conjunction with that sector. One may ask how aquaculture can save Arranmore, but it will take five years for all the studies and business plans to be completed. It may be a case of considering something on land, such as a contained aquaculture project.