Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Senator. I note his point on lobbying. From a Government perspective, as he knows, we have a fishing attaché and some consular people at the permanent representation in Brussels. We are well facilitated in terms of engagement. However, I take his point on the lobbying effort, which generally does not fall within the remit of the Government. I am happy to look at the suggestions the Senator has to see if we can do more. I am conscious of the team we have, whom I have met on a number of occasions. They are impressive in their capacity to engage with other member states and appraise the Department and myself of issues arising and future opportunities. I am conscious though that other countries have a significant lobbying exercise, perhaps funded through the industry. As I said, we can engage with the Senator on that.

I do not disagree with his assessment, and that of others, on the impact that has happened as a result of Brexit. The Senator will know, through his own business, the impact that it has. It is also worth reflecting on the sense of resilience I get in the industry that notwithstanding the significant challenges and significant losses, a group of men and women are prepared to try to reorient their business and this industry in a manner that will provide for those coastal communities. The Department, the Government and I will absolutely want to work with that to ensure we leave a viable business behind and have a plan-led approach to it.