Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I am aware of the correspondence forwarded by the Deputy to my colleague, Deputy O'Dea. I take seriously the allegations about the length of gear. There is no restriction on the length, but the end of each net is legal while the centre is often illegal. There have also been allegations from one of the POs. From a control perspective, I am told it is difficult to detect the practices because the nets are many miles long and they are left in the water continuously.

I want to ensure that there is a level playing pitch throughout Europe. I am treating this very seriously. We are in communication with the Minister for Defence and we are anxious to apprehend any vessel that is fishing illegally. I understand what Deputy Ferris is saying about the quantities, but those that are landed in Ireland must be logged. We will continue to inspect them and my officials will continue to ensure that those that do not give us prior notice are brought to justice. The grounds were once the most prolific grounds in Europe, but due to overfishing that is no longer the case. We cannot allow that to continue and conservation is very important.

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