Dan Boyle (Green Party)

Senators O'Donovan and Keaveney requested a debate on the seafood industry. Senator Keaveney also inquired about the distribution of functions relating to the marine among several Government Departments. It would be apt for the House to engage in a debate on the seafood industry. Meetings are taking place today among representatives of the fishing industry, the Department and EU officials regarding the days at sea directive. The outcome of these meetings might assist in resuscitating life in many of our coastal communities. Senator O'Donovan is seeking a wide-ranging debate on this matter and on the economic impact that might result from the provision of additional support to the seafood industry.

The Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Deputy Killeen, has responsibility for fisheries and forestry. As a result, he also has direct responsibility in respect of the matter to which the Senators refer. Inquiries will be made with the Minister of State in respect of whether he would be prepared to come before the House in order to engage in a debate on the seafood industry.

Senators Keaveney, Buttimer and Harris asked about control of the media in the context of statements made at the weekend. Senator Buttimer referred to people in the media passing opinion off as fact, while Senator Harris likened the role of the media to a sewage-clearing system which operates, in the public interest, in the area of politics.