Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

There is a shift away from red meat, which nutritionists recommend one should consume one day a week. When one considers that obesity is a growing problem among this country's population, it is even more important to place a renewed emphasis on the fishing industry.

The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food is aware that there is a scarcity of supply of fish. There are concerns about the availability of fish. What will happen in a county like Kerry, which depends greatly on tourism, if fishermen are unable to go to sea to bring in a catch? Most restaurants rely on fish dishes to attract customers, but if something is not done they will not have enough fish in a few weeks' time.

I am not sure whether the Minister, Deputy Smith, or the Taoiseach was responsible for building up such huge expectations in advance of the most recent meeting of the Council of Ministers. Many people were under the impression that an aid package would be offered to Irish fishermen on foot of the meeting. I met some fishermen who were convinced that a package would be made available, but that did not happen. I understand that there was a reluctance at that meeting to offer assistance.

It is time for the Government to do something. I accept that we face difficult times. We are fortunate to have many good professional operators in the fishing industry but we could be witnessing the end of them if something drastic is not done to help as soon as possible.

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