Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

If the committee writes to the Commission in advance of the December meeting, which would be a good idea, there are a number of issues to mention. The committee can take the advice in whatever fashion it likes. The committee can ask the Commission to take on board the most up-to-date science but, more importantly, there are politics involved. In trying to introduce a radical change in the way in which we fish - that is the new Common Fisheries Policy, which came about for all the right reasons - the industry must be brought along with that change. That is not the time for implementing drastic cuts. It will convince fishermen that Europe is against them if there is implementation of drastic cuts, particularly if the cuts are not fully backed by science.

What we are trying to do is bring the industry with us. We are seeking to gradually introduce a new way of fishing which is more sustainable and which will result, over time, in much better results. From a political point of view, I appeal to those in the industry to recognise that we are all trying to bring about the reform to which I refer. Ireland is committed to that reform and it held the Presidency of the EU when the deal relating to it was done. Those involved should factor this into their thinking when they are weighing up the social and economic consequences - which they are obliged to do under the CFP - before making choices with regard to quota, as well as taking responsible decisions in respect of science and sustainability.