Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Exactly four years ago this month, the Government made an announcement that vessels over 80 m would be excluded from fishing in inshore waters. That followed a consultation with than 900 submissions. Subsequently, a policy directive issued. Unfortunately, it ended up in the courts with a High Court decision against the Government. Then, a Court of Appeal decision was made in July of this year for the Government. Where are we now with regard to the policy? The answer I received up until recently is that it is open season for the big vessels to go in and fish, notwithstanding that the Court of Appeal held completely in favour of the Government. I will point out that this is extremely important, not just to protect small fishermen but also with regard to ecology, biodiversity and the protection of sprat. Where are we four years after the policy was introduced?

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