Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael)

I again thank the Deputy for raising this important matter. As I already stated, I am taking it on the behalf of the Minister of State, Deputy Dooley, who will be in direct contact with the Deputy in the coming days. He would like to have been here to take the debate in his capacity as the Minister of State with responsibility for this area but had a prior arrangement to meet the minister for fisheries in the UK.

This Government is fully committed to maintaining support for the important inshore fishing sector and promoting the sustainability of fishing stocks as outlined in the programme for Government. The review of trawling policy inside six nautical miles is ongoing. The 5,500 submissions received are being given due consideration. The updated scientific and economic analysis from the Marine Institute and Bord Iascaigh Mhara will be factored into any decision. It takes time to get it right. I must stress that given the history of litigation in respect of the previous policy directive, it is vital that all necessary procedural and legal steps are taken before any final decision is made. I take this opportunity to emphasise that this matter is of the utmost importance to this Government. I assure the Deputy that my Department is doing everything to progress this as expeditiously as possible.

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