John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his reply. Regarding the deferment of the opening, an allegation was made against owners of vessels of the pelagic fleet but clearly this was unproven. The latter had a considerable impact on a number of people. I am delighted that it did not prevail in Scotland.

In respect of the six-year arrangement, will the opening date regarding fishing by vessels of the pelagic fleet be 1 January from now on or will the date be deferred from next year? What role will the new agency play and what recommendations will the Government take on board in the future regarding the imposition of fines in respect of alleged incidents of over-fishing? Will the Government delegate responsibility to the new agency, the job of which is to supervise quotas and deal with any illegal activities that may occur. As regards such activities, I refer to those relating to allegations being made and cases being brought to court and not to those involving hearsay.

I accept that they may be sub judice but I wish to inquire about recent court proceedings. Are these linked to the incidents of over-fishing that had an impact on quite a number of the owners of vessels of the pelagic fleet who had no part in the alleged offences committed?

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