Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)

Senator McHugh could not have written the motion as he knows much more about the issue than the person who drafted it. Senator Finucane all but acknowledged that fact by not referring to any aspect of the motion. He spoke of frustrations and his understanding of the issue given his experience as spokesperson on the marine in the Seanad and the other House. It is irresponsible of the Opposition to table the motion, on which I look forward to hearing the Minister of State's views. I commend the amendment to the House.

I acknowledge that many challenges face the fishing industry. To use a famous political phrase, a lot has been done and there is more to do. This will be the case long into the future as issues and challenges will always arise, never more so than now. We wish the Minister well in the forthcoming Council meetings in Brussels.

Notwithstanding my short political career, I have some knowledge of the Minister of State. I can state confidently that there is not a person alive who is more experienced or talented or better placed to work on behalf of Ireland and the fishing organisations in all matters marine. I am confident that with the support of the House he will consistently achieve the best possible deal on marine issues.