Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)

I acknowledge the contributions made by all my colleagues. I agree, in particular, with the point made by Deputy Kenneally. One of the weaknesses of the fishing industry during the years was its failure to speak collectively and coherently with one voice. However, what is now occurring in this regard is a new departure for the fishing industry. The IFA is not the premier league pressure group by default. It is cohesive, speaks with one voice and pursues its objectives relentlessly. When fishermen stand united and express their views coherently, they will deliver. We cannot allow the industry to go down.

I pay tribute to those in the Federation of Irish Fishermen and the producer organisations from Killybegs to south-west Cork who, as the Minister of State and Opposition Members know, tirelessly advocate on behalf of, and work endlessly behind the scenes to deliver for, their organisations. As for administrative sanctions, this was a slap in the face to them and their efforts. While the Minister of State has made the correct soundings, his speech was off-keel tonight and was not what is required to resolve the issue of administrative sanctions. Some of these issues are outside our control and must be determined in Europe. Others, however, rest within the capacity of this House to deliver.

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