Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)

There is no danger of that. The amendments produced show that all those Opposition Deputies who are pushing this issue have honestly attempted to grapple with the complexities involved. Despite his interest in sustainable fishing stocks, which we all share, Deputy Eamon Ryan has stated that he does not see a problem with administrative sanctions for minor and technical offences. He acknowledged that he found other amendments slightly complex, particularly those moved by Fine Gael, but that is not the point. Complexity may be the answer. If we need a complex answer, let us provide it. Deputies on this side of the House have made an honest attempt to provide such an answer.

It boils down to political will. An unusual coalition has been formed around the introduction of administrative sanctions. Deputy Broughan mentioned the unusual coalition composed of Fine Gael, the Labour Party, the Green Party and Sinn Féin.

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