Tim Lombard (Fine Gael)
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The publication of the UK proposal on 2 July was a frightening one regarding the actions in respect of the London Fisheries Convention 1964. In many ways, it was expected. It was a game of chess and we were expecting this move but we now anticipate a very turbulent time. Confidence will be key in the fishing industry in the coming years. As a previous speaker indicated, it will take time to have the issues regarding Brexit resolved. The two-year timeline proposed by the UK is deeply optimistic to say the least. What we need from the discussions in the coming months is a confidence that we can bring to the market and the industry because there was a deep fear when this was announced that it would impact upon us in months if not years. However, it is very important to realise that these are all tied in to the actual fishing policies themselves and, as a result, there will be no real movement on the matter until the entire Brexit issue is sorted out.

A report on Brexit has been compiled by the Seanad Select Committee on the Withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union addressing what the committee believes to be the pitfalls. Fisheries was mentioned in that regard. It is an important report.

We really need to see a timeline to ensure people are not too anxious that the two-year limit will be imposed. This is going to take time to sort out and a rush into it would not be appropriate.