Brendan Daly (Fianna Fail)

We have yet to hear from Fine Gael, which expressed concern about the decline of salmon fishing and salmon fisheries generally. Does Fine Gael support the abolition of drift net fishing for salmon? Yes or no? It is a very simple question. Does Fine Gael wish to see drift net fishing for salmon continue or does it want to see it end? I would recommend strongly to the Opposition Members who tabled this vague, innocuous motion that they should read the BIM report for 2003, which is the latest available. The Department has a record of achievement in all aspects of the marine industry, including training, fish processing, harbours, aquaculture, salmon and mussel farming and so on. A total of 17 whitefish vessels have been added to the fishing fleet with 12 more to come on stream this year. Five new pelagic vessels were added to the fleet last year. The fishermen themselves have invested millions of euro because they have confidence in the work of the Minister of State and the Government to develop our sea fisheries, which can continue to make a significant contribution to coastal communities where it is important that employment and other opportunities should be created.

It is impossible to discuss the various aspects of this complex industry in a few minutes.