Pádraic McCormack (Galway West, Fine Gael)

During my contribution on Second Stage, I had a passionate exchange with the then Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Deputy Gallagher. I am not a member of the committees which dealt with Committee Stage of the Bill and I welcome the opportunity to record my support for this group of amendments.

They relate to the crux of the matter. It is a question of whether this legislation will make criminals of fishermen. All people of common sense, including the last two speakers — one from the Government side and one from Fine Gael, both eminent lawyers — support the concept that fishermen should not be classified as criminals as may be the case if this Bill goes through unamended. Deputy O'Donovan's contribution was well argued, articulate and courageous. We will know the extent of this courage when the amendment is put. He has recorded his views on the difficulties that may arise if this part of the Bill is unchanged and the Minister must take those on board.

I cannot understand why a different criterion applies to Irish fishermen from those in other EU countries. Why do we want to introduce criminal offences for infringements not deemed criminal in other jurisdictions? A criminal offence is a serious matter, as the last two speakers are particularly aware. A fisherman found guilty of a criminal offence could be debarred from visiting family in the United States or elsewhere, for example. This is only one of a number of unnecessary penalties which may be endured by those deemed criminal because of breaches of this legislation. I look forward in particular to the Minister's reply to Deputy O'Donovan who has articulately argued the case for accepting these amendments.

I am aware there were minor amendments on Committee Stage but I remain hopeful these important amendments will be accepted. It is difficult to understand why we wish to go further than other European countries in showing a willingness to oppress fishermen. I cannot understand the logic of this. Is there some hidden agenda in this regard? Is it because we have had a slap on the wrist from the EU about this and are now bending over backwards to prove we are better Europeans than the rest and will control our fishermen more than other states do? My constituents in Galway West include many fishermen and I cannot see the logic in introducing criminal offences. Will the Minister explain the hidden agenda in this regard?

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