Manus Boyle (Fine Gael)

I move:

That Seanad Éireann: - acknowledges the appointment of a Minister of State with responsibility for Fisheries, and for the Marine, as part of Programme for Government commitments;

- acknowledges the challenges faced by Irish fishermen and women due to anticipated quota reductions driven by the International Council for the Exploration of the Seas (ICES) scientific advice, rising operational costs, and the impact of international agreements on the sustainability of the sector;

- notes the vital economic, cultural, and social importance of the fishing industry to coastal communities across Ireland;

- notes the investment by Government in our ports, under the Fisheries Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme;

- expresses concern that third countries, including Norway, refuse to set total allowable catches in line with the ICES advice;

- considers that this irresponsible behaviour demonstrates that these third countries do not see the EU as an equal partner in managing our stocks of shared interest;

- expresses concern about the access granted to third countries, including Norway, to fish in Irish waters under current arrangements; calls on the Government to: - invoke the relevant Hague Preferences, at the appropriate time;

- oppose any further concessions that allow third countries disproportionate access to Irish waters, while showing disregard for ICES scientific advice;

- safeguard and develop shore-based services, including fish processing, storage, and transport infrastructure, to maintain employment and economic activity in coastal regions;

- increase investment in modernisation and safety measures for the fishing fleet;

- provide targeted supports for small-scale and inshore fishers to ensure the viability of traditional fishing communities; and

- enhance enforcement and monitoring to protect Irish waters from illegal or excessive fishing activities by non-EU vessels.