Michael Comiskey (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for their presentations. It is good to have them here. I must admit that I know little about fishing, but I am prepared to learn. I come from County Leitrim, which has a short coastline of only 2 km. There is not much fishing. Normally, the first salmon of the year is caught in the Drowes but, as far as I know, people are still waiting. I saw gentlemen fishing at the Drowes yesterday. Previously, the committee discussed the problem of salmon not coming from Donegal.

Two or two and a half years ago, I met a gentleman in Galway who had a problem. He had a processing factory and felt that it was difficult for smaller fishermen to operate because large boats were coming in and taking away much of the mackerel and herring from his area. However, some of the Minister's work has helped him. Since I met him, he has gone back into business and employs approximately ten people.

In terms of the issues raised by the witnesses, I will work with my colleagues to ensure that whatever can be done will be done. It is important that we sustain coastal fishermen.