Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

As far as consultation between the Minister, Deputy Noel Dempsey, and me is concerned, we have had a general consideration of the issue. We will be looking at this matter over a number of weeks. I am going through the report. It is quite comprehensive and will take some time. On conclusion of that process I will discuss it with the Minister prior to sending a memo to Government. As far as the boards are concerned, they are still in situ. What will happen in future will depend entirely on the decision by Government. From a practical point of view, the boards, and the Central Fisheries Board, are still playing a very important role in the development of the fisheries sector in their respective areas.

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