Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

A moratorium was introduced in 1999 on the basis that the kilowatt days to be introduced subsequent to that would be based on 1998 to 2002 period. The kilowatt days available this year are somewhat similar to the 2002 figure. I understand the point made by Deputy Perry that the fleet has grown since 2002, particularly in 2003. The moratorium was placed on the acceptance of applications and in 2003 it was decided that those applications on hand, providing they complied with the conditions and criteria, would be approved.

The kilowatt days are affected because the stocks off the south-east coast have declined and the boats must travel to the English Channel fishing grounds. Members will be aware that fishing days are counted from the time a boat leaves port until it returns and this is the principle accepted in Europe. If fishing days were available off the south-east coast, we would not be in this position.

I am pleased that Padraig White, former chief executive of the IDA, accepted my invitation to work with the general industry, including the scallop fishing sector. I suggest we await his report.

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