Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

In terms of our approach towards the Western Sahara issue, I will reread two paragraphs into the record, as it is an important matter. They read:

Ireland has been clear that our final decision would be influenced by whether it can be persuasively shown that there is appropriate benefit deriving to the Saharawi people through implementation of the FPA. Therefore, our position on the ratification of the one-year protocol remains reserved, as the Commission's analysis of the information provided by the Moroccan side on the regional benefits has not been unequivocal.

While citing that positive benefits were in evidence in the regional distribution of funds including to the Western Sahara, the level of those benefits remains uncertain. Ireland has always been a firm supporter of the right to self-determination of the people of the Western Sahara and the Government remains firmly committed to this principle.

I am quite familiar with the Western Sahara issue. I am unaware of any evidence of Irish boats or Irish interests operating under a flag of convenience fishing there, but I may be wrong. If the Deputy has individual cases he wants to explore with me, I would happily discuss them with him.

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