John Cregan (Limerick West, Fianna Fail)

Ireland may not have been in a position at the time to produce adequate evidence which would have determined reasonable quotas. It may be that Brussels held back on us but I do not know if that is the case. At the end of the day, we received totally inadequate quotas. It is important to recognise we are starting from a low base. It is easy to be critical of Government as Deputy Kathleen Lynch has been in saying it is not defending fishermen. While I admire Deputy Lynch, I disagree with that statement.

We are fortunate to have a Minister and Minister of State who are absolutely committed to improving the lot of our fishermen and our fishing industry. The current problems did not arise under the watch of the current Ministers; they have been around for many years. It is about time they were tackled. I know from the level of engagement that has taken place in Europe with the Commissioner in recent days and weeks that they are being tackled.

It is hoped that at the end of the day agreement will be reached on EU-wide proposals that will satisfy our fishermen in terms of their having meaningful margins when they go to sea. Fishing is a tough, difficult hard life and the margins available are very small. I do not believe any of us would work for these margins. I sincerely hope there will be vast improvements in this regard.

I welcome the decommissioning scheme and the €42 million committed in that regard. While this will suit some people it will not, as is the case in any walk of life, suit others. It will result in many older fleets leaving the industry thus ensuring there are more stocks available for those who remain in it, which in itself will be of tremendous help. It is regrettable that skippers only will qualify for the pay-out. Adequate resources should be put in place to ensure those who lose their jobs are upskilled to re-enter the workplace.

I regret my time is limited. This is an important debate on what is an important national asset. It is incumbent on all of us to stand up and be counted in terms of protecting our fishing industry. I am sure both Ministers, who have shown great commitment in the portfolios they have held to date, will ensure we achieve substantial improvements in our fishing industry.

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