Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

There are a number of vulnerable areas. When I saw the initial Commission proposal, I was concerned about its impact on the overall fishery. Where appropriate, we have worked hard to change the Commission's proposal by putting together data that are based on science and collected in a credible way.

Regarding area 6A off County Donegal, we accept that there remains a significant problem in terms of cod. Where Celtic Sea stocks of herring are concerned, we are encouraging the Commission to be more cautious. The question of Irish Sea cod is receiving a great deal of political attention from myself and my counterpart in Northern Ireland, Ms Michelle O'Neill, MLA, to try for a united approach, North and South. In terms of making appropriate assessments for new quotas next year, the Commission has got the boarfish issue all wrong. Thanks to the Marine Institute, we have sufficient credible data to put a new, strong argument in December to improve what is a difficult situation for the industry. I am determined in this regard. If people want to contribute to the process, we will happily try to take their points on board.

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