Joe McHugh (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 3:

In page 15, between lines 25 and 26, to insert the following subsection:

"(8) The master of an Irish sea-fishing boat may depart from the terms of any notice under subsection (7) where exceptional circumstances (such as force majeure, the safety of the crew or the safety of the vessel) so require.".

We are all familiar with the concept of force majeure as it relates to the Department of Agriculture and Food in the context of exceptional circumstances. The Minister might outline his opinion on the fact that much grant aid, specification and regulation pertains to safety procedures on large and small boats. While I accept I am deviating to address issues that have recently come to my attention, what is the Minister's opinion on the regulations and stipulations that crews of small vessels and fishermen must obey with regard to safety procedures?

Much outstanding grant aid, which can average €3,000 to €4,000, is not available to fishermen. Some fishermen in the north west are still awaiting grants for safety procedures despite having gone through the required process and complied with existing regulations. Will the Minister expedite the grant aid due to many fishermen with small vessels?