Martin Ferris (Kerry North-West Limerick, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I am sorry, I thought they were separate. It is still a big figure. When the negotiations are approaching, the worst-case scenario is laid out and people are conditioned for what is coming. When the outcome is not as bad as that, however, the negotiations are considered a success, but that is not the reality. We still have the consequences of reductions in catches and income and the economic stability of the fleet that is involved, as well as that of local communities.

I assume the Minister has a bottom line that is determined after his discussions and negotiations with the stakeholders. Stakeholders include the fishermen, buyers and others in the sector. I also assume that the scientific analysis on the areas that will be affected by the cuts stands up. Is the Minister satisfied that is the case? Is he also satisfied that the scientific analysis is as accurate as one might expect?

I said to Deputy Pringle that every year I look at the cuts and the north west seems to get off a lot lighter than everywhere else. Perhaps the area has more influence.