Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

Unlike many ports, Killybegs relies mainly on the pelagic sector, but we are not discussing that sector today. Rather, we are discussing whitefish quotas. Any reduction in quota will impact on the north west, as it will on any other part of the country. The primary focus of the study under discussion is on the allocation of whitefish quota, but the pelagic sector is an important one.

Deputy Pringle asked about inshore fishing. We are seeking changes to allow certain fishing to take place, for example, jigging for pollock and gill netting for spotted dog which is used for bait in the crab fishery. Bord Iascaigh Mhara, BIM, and the Marine Institute have done trials to add to our arguments and I can send the Deputy further details on the matter.

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