Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)

I thank the Minister for a comprehensive reply. This pertains to the seafood industry which is worth up to €800 million and which certainly has been suffering significant and devastating consequences. In particular, I refer to the impact on the approximately 12,000 people employed in coastal communities. It surely behoves Ireland to make an all-out effort to deliver a profitable and sustainable industry. The Minister is aware that many fishermen face complete economic ruin in the absence of a significant intervention, rather than a token gesture, to save coastal communities.

The Minister is aware that the industry has sustained a series of changes, all impacted over a short period, but even prior to the fuel price increases many were finding it difficult to operate. Many had the idea of converting borrowings into long-terms loans but will financial institutions do that now? Will the Minister agree that the people who bring in the catch are the price takers? They do not come up with the price and they are not in a position to pass on any costs in that regard.

Why can we as a country not intervene directly and render assistance, as other countries do? This is part of the European debate. The French can do what they like. The Spanish Government can intervene when it deems it necessary to do so but we are always the great white knights who obey every rule, and it is one of the reasons the Lisbon treaty referendum was defeated. Our problem is that we are too subservient.

The Minister met the fishermen and the representatives in Athlone. They sought a temporary tie-up scheme, which is allowed under the European fisheries fund. That should not be given as an excuse. What is the position on the control of fish imports and anti-dumping measures the Minister referred to? We all saw what happened at the cargo terminal in Cork, which was a frightening scenario. Why can we not market the fish, which is vital from a health perspective?

What is the position on the commitment to provide the decommissioning scheme for 80 m vessels? Where is the €58 million that was provided for that scheme?

As an island nation we should take a pivotal role in responding to the current crisis. The European Commission made promises and gave various commitments but that is like the acorn seed. It takes years for the oak tree to grow. How long will it take the Council of Ministers to deliver? What input will this country have to try to secure and save an industry that is extremely important, even for those of us in the midlands? It is important for the country. We call upon the Minister to intervene and take every step to ensure the security and future of this important industry.

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