Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)

The overall catch of stock has grown significantly in recent years. That indicates that there is not a major threat in the short term to the supply of sprat. However, it is my view that to continue to fish at those levels would certainly lead to a significant negative impact. I will get into the process that is under way a little later. I have to be mindful, in whatever decision is ultimately taken, that it is a proportionate response to the threat and risk to the stock and to the economic viability of the inshore fishing sector. We must take all of that into account when a decision is being made. I am hopeful we will not just have reviewed the upwards of 5,500 submissions that have been made in the latest consultation period. I have also sought from the Marine Institute the latest scientific information available and general economic data to assist me in making a decision about how we move forward in the next phase.

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