Seán Kyne (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State for coming here in person. I acknowledge Senator Boyle and Senator O'Donovan for leading off on this Private Members' business about the fishing sector. I do not believe it is ever too late to discuss any of our native and primary industries. In some ways, it has been the poor relation of agriculture, no doubt, since we joined the EEC, which is now the European Union. That is not to say it does not have a future and does not need continued assessment and support.

I welcome the appointment of the Minister of State. It is very much an identifiable, stand-alone sector that deserves a Minister of State to deal with the issues. On a slight side note, I am a member of the defence and security committee and we were in Gormanston, County Meath last week to see the investment in facilities there and hear about recruitment into our Naval Service, which goes hand in hand with fisheries protection. There is a way to go but at least there is a positive trend in the recruitment of naval personnel, which will be important for protecting our waters.

The European Union has put its faith in the scientific advice about these things. In some ways, that has tied the hands of Ministers over the years, along with the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea. Advice is that and it also has to be advice that is sensible, implementable and agreeable. Rules and decisions that are made must be abided by all relevant participants. The concerns expressed in this motion regarding third nations is hugely important because there is a view that third nations, including Norway, have too much sway on our waters and the fish stocks. It is important to recognise that agreeing a motion like this today strengthens the Minister of State's hand in terms of the work he has to do on behalf of the Department, the fishermen and the State. Therefore, the motion is important.I also acknowledge the investment that has taken place in ports across the country. There is always more to do, no more than on our road network or our schools. A pipeline of further development is always needed. I acknowledge, as I have done before, the work of the former Minister, Deputy McConalogue, and his work in Rossaveal, County Galway. You hear stories of hundreds employed in the past in places like Rossaveal in the fishing sector, and boatloads of fish coming ashore. That is not the reality now unfortunately. I acknowledge the work that has gone into this motion and look forward to the Minister of State's response on this and his plans going forward.