Conor McGuinness (Waterford, Sinn Fein)

I thank the Minister. The figures are glaring. There are 13,000 active fishermen in the State and the idea that only 52 of them are need in of support is absurd. There is a disconnect. No one can seriously claim the sector is not under pressure. My understanding and sense of it from the figures, which back this up, is the fish assist scheme is too restrictive and limited. It is not that fishermen and fisherwomen are not aware of it - they know about it - but it is too limited, restrictive and it is not fit for purpose. That is why they are not applying but the need is there. The need is in every coastal community and we see it.

Inshore and island fishing communities have been systemically starved of opportunity, denied a fair share of the fish in their own waters and Government policy has failed them again and again but they are not asking for handouts. These are proud people. They are asking for a viable future. They are asking for proper financial support or a subsidy scheme of some sort that reflects the reality of that situation. The Minister of State and I know it is needed. Will the Minister of State engage with the Minister for Social Protection on foot of this question and debate and collectively take action?

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