Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I am aware of the Deputy's knowledge and experience in this area, and I take that on board. She is right to identify sprat as an important feeder stock for mammals, birds and other fish species in those areas she has identified. I will continue to engage with the Marine Institute with regard to the information it has and data it is capturing as part of its overall assessment of stocks in the region generally. The Deputy will be familiar with an effort made by a previous Government to look at the capture of sprat in a manner that is not so much based on the reduction in or concerns about the stock volumes, but more to try to support the inshore fishing sector. For that sector, with its smaller operations, sprat provides an economic dividend for their livelihoods. It is important to coastal communities. I know there will be a further question on this matter later. Time permitting, I will address the current position in a more holistic way.

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