John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)

The Indecon International Economic Consultants report on fish processing in 2001 stated there were 29 pelagic fish processing companies at that date. There now appear to be 14, which suggests that up to 15 companies have closed in the past three years. Is this a huge concern considering the economic spin-off not alone to fish processing but to the supply chain of that industry?

What changes are necessary in our domestic quota management to reflect the new fleet development and reduced quota for key species? There has been a dramatic change in emphasis in regard to different species. Is the Minister concerned with the closure of 15 companies since 2001 and that, as we speak, Peterhead in Scotland is investing heavily to accommodate Irish boats?

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