Mr. Michael Desmond:

As members might have guessed, we are not here to give career advice, but I thank the committee for its invitation here to discuss the difficulties, challenges and future opportunities of the inshore fishing sector. As many of them are aware, Ireland seems to have more marine NGOs and anti-fishing social media groups than it has actual fishermen. The vast majority of the members associated with these groups seem to have zero experience or knowledge of our vital industry but can call for the closure of existing and important fisheries within our sector that contribute to the economic survivability of rural coastal communities.

Instead of closing current fisheries, the committee should focus on the reopening of fisheries that were unjustifiably halted by previous Governments because of intense lobbying from various groups at a time when there was no producer organisation to represent us and counteract these misguided measures. French and British vessels continue to fish for bass on our very doorstep while Irish consumers are buying imported, inferior farmed fish when it could be fresh wild-caught Irish sea bass. The same scenario applies to sea trout, salmon, eels and pollock. To reopen fisheries with sustainable management plans in place would allow our members and others to diversify their fishing activities and alleviate the pressure on the shellfish stocks.

There is an immediate and urgent need for financial support for inshore fisherman similar to those received by Irish artists. Annually, approximately 2,000 artists receive €35 million because they are recognised as a part of this country's culture and heritage, as are we, without the recognition. As well as being primary food producers of the healthiest food source available, 30 years ago, we were getting higher prices for our product than we are now, and our expenses have increased tenfold. Atlantic storms and gales are far more frequent because of climate change, so we are spending less time at sea during the winter months. Our pleas cannot go ignored once again in the upcoming budget as they have in all previous budgets.

Pelagic fish stocks are a national resource and asset. It is unconscionable that another year will pass where almost the entirely of the mackerel and herring quota is given to just 50 large vessels, owned by maybe two dozen people. How can the minority be the main beneficiary? Some semblance of morality needs to be injected into this equation. An ever-increasing number of our membership are of the belief that the only reason for this ridiculous distribution is our inability to make political donations.

Inshore vessels should always be allowed to land their catch in the closest port and not be obliged to travel to a designated one, often for hours in treacherous winter sea conditions.

A dedicated hook and line quota for bluefin tuna must be acquired immediately for the inshore sector. It is difficult to comprehend that vessels from all EU coastal states as well as a fleet from the southern hemisphere are allowed access to this stock while again, we can just observe. This particular species is more abundant than ever on our shores, and to be able to access this fishery would greatly enhance the financial income of inshore vessels.

There has to be increased engagement from the Department of the marine and all inshore representatives to improve results with our innumerable issues. The situation surrounding the north-west herring committee needs immediate resolution as this grouping is devoid of any inshore representation whatsoever. An impartial chair needs to be appointed from within the Department with immediate effect.

Access to social welfare must be improved. The fish assist scheme is minuscule in comparison to what is needed. Each vessel is a small business and deserves to be treated as such because of the employment it creates. Illness benefit access is also necessary.

Grant applications need a complete revamp for our sector as those most in need are unable to avail because of the pay 100% upfront requirement. This is causing a two-tier sector. A huge number of fisherman are also not computer literate and paper copies need to be made available.

In relation to offshore renewable energy, the Irish State must ensure that all fisherman affected are adequately compensated by renewable energy companies. The brown crab working group needs to be resumed this year, and regular meetings have to take place quarterly. A huge-----