Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will follow up on the point about the 50% reserve and the question of what the other 50% might be earmarked for. If I understand correctly, that 50% goes to Inland Fisheries Ireland. As the Minister mentioned, the other complementary part - the work of the EPA - is very important. Perhaps it would be appropriate for some of the other 50% of the revenue generated to be earmarked for the work of the EPA in regard to water quality in specific areas. The Minister mentioned the intersection with the land use plan. Marine protected areas are going to be very relevant, especially as they intersect with tidal waters. Would it be worth considering the earmarking of a portion of the other 50% of revenue raised for the work of the EPA and for work that might be needed, perhaps for a specific time period, in regard to the land use strategy and the development of the marine protected areas?

On a related issue, one of the key issues relating to licences is the level of stock that is in place. This was highlighted recently in respect of Cork by fishermen. There was very serious concern that unless we have better monitoring and regulation of sonar and noise activity in our waters, it is likely to have a detrimental effect on fish stock. That may affect future sea fishing quotas but also future licences. To what extent is the Minister engaging with his Cabinet colleagues and the Minister of State, Deputy Noonan, on the development of regulations in respect of sonar activity in marine areas that may impact on fish stocks and in terms of the habitats directive? Ireland has responsibility for the implementation of the habitats directive within our exclusive economic zone, EEZ. I would be grateful if the Minister could comment on that. I think it will affect both the quotas and the issue of future licensing.