David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. That was helpful. The Minister spoke about seeking the best provisions for the Irish fishing industry. In that case, perhaps he can explain to me why four named fishermen from different parts of the Republic of Ireland have decided it is in their professional interest to take this case to the Supreme Court? They obviously do not agree with the Minister that the Government is at the moment providing the best arrangements for the Irish fishing industry.

The Minister indicated in his speech, as I understand it, that he cannot guarantee that fishing boats registered in Northern Ireland are actually Northern Ireland-owned boats or boats with Northern Ireland personnel on them. Can the Minister give any information on what are the respective per annumtonnages of fish caught in this zone, shellfish in particular, for Republic of Ireland vessels fishing in Northern Ireland and for Northern Ireland vessels fishing in Southern waters? What are the respective tonnages and what is the level we are at? I am not sure if the Minister will be able to provide this information.