Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I am delighted to be on this very important committee. I look forward to working with the Cathaoirleach and I congratulate him on his appointment to the role.

There are a few issues I want to raise and we can elaborate on them later.

The processing of aquaculture licences has been a huge issue in my neck of the woods for many years. I live close to the fishing village of Cromane, just outside Killorglin. I know from dealing with fishermen there that they are experiencing significant delays in the processing of their applications for licences. I would like for that to be looked into.

Pair trawling is a big issue in Kerry as well, in Kenmare Bay and off the coast of Dingle in Dingle Bay. I have witnessed it numerous times from my own door in Rossbeigh, which is on Dingle Bay. There is considerable concern in that regard in the fishing industry in Kerry among those involved in trawlers, rod fishing, etc. I pay tribute to the students of Pobalscoil Inbhear Scéine in Kenmare, who have lobbied to bring an end to pair trawling. I would like to see that issue progress.

Regarding marine and leisure, I would like to see us as a committee promoting tidal swimming pools. We are an island and have plenty of appropriate locations. I can think of places in Kerry, including Rossbeigh and Fenit. It could coincide with coastal protection works. In that regard, will we liaise with the Office of Public Works and invite it to appear before the committee? I believe we should and that we should work closely together. Our two areas are closely related.

On infrastructure, I mentioned Cromane, which is probably one of the oldest fishing villages in the country. At one stage, it was the third largest exporter of mussels in Ireland. Today, oyster farming creates considerable employment in the locality, for young people especially. It is great to see them living and working in their area and being able to afford to build a house as well. The village of Cromane has been looking for a pier or any type of landing facility for well over 100 years. The idea of trawlers driving up onto the bank and a tractor and trailer reversing into the sea to unload mussels is not on anymore. There is a health and safety risk, if nothing else. Could we have such issues on the agenda?