Manus Boyle (Fine Gael)

The witnesses are very welcome. The important thing is that the fishermen and fisherwomen of Ireland need to be looked after first. There can be no progress without everybody being on the one wavelength. As someone who comes from a fishing background, I believe the easiest way is to include everybody. I am glad that the group has taken everybody's views on board. I thank it for that because there is no way this can move forward without everybody being on the one wavelength.

On the national ports policy, I am coming strictly from a Killybegs view here. I know we are designated as a fishery harbour centre. I seek clarification on this. Does that make any difference as to why we cannot be put on the list of ports? We have 13 m at low tide. We have some of the deepest waters in Ireland. We have a proven track record. We have handled everything from the Corrib gas field in Mayo. We had one of the biggest pipe-laying vessels in the world in there. Everything went to plan. In the years to come, Killybegs should be designated as a centre for it. Welders, fitters, electricians and all the expertise needed for offshore development are based in and around the town because they look after the fleet.

Are any projects shovel ready at the moment and just waiting? How long do the witnesses think it will be?