Conor McGuinness (Waterford, Sinn Fein)

I am referring specifically to imports. Ireland owns one eighth of the EU's fishing grounds – they are part of our sovereign territory – yet we have less than 6% of the fishing quota. I understand this is not because BIM ordained it so but it is the reality we are operating in. Processors here are experiencing growth but have to import fish. I assume they are importing in part from other European states, so a processor in Ireland could be processing fish caught in Irish waters but not by an Irish boat. As a society, and as a political body here, we have to call that out as not right. I take Ms Bocquel's point, however.

I want to raise aquaculture with Ms Bocquel. I realise others have already raised the issue of the slow pace of licensing. I am very concerned about the impact of water quality and would be interested in hearing what engagement BIM has with the EPA and Uisce Éireann with regard to that.

Also mentioned already has been the need to promote Irish shellfish domestically. We have a fantastic product. Deputy Cahill mentioned some of the producers in his area. I come from An Rinn in west Waterford. In Dungarvan Bay, we produce oysters that are exported all over the world. We have a really high-quality product. It would be fantastic if we could see growth in this sector to cater to an increasing domestic market. I will be interested in hearing Ms Bocquel's opinions on that. I will allow her to respond and then ask a further question.