John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 436: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he plans to establish a group to examine a long-term policy for the commercial fishing industry; if such a group would involve all relevant parties to the discussion, including retailers, with massive involvement from the fishing industry; if such a plan would be comprehensive, with a substantial amount of time devoted to it, such as six to 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11143/05]

Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The programme for Government contains a commitment to set out a long-term strategy for the sustainable development of our fishing industry, which operates within the overall framework of the Common Fisheries Policy. To date, a number of specific policy initiatives have been progressed, including a new CFP Regulation agreed in 2002, following comprehensive sectoral consultation in Ireland. A new, fully transparent fleet licensing policy has been introduced and a legally independent licensing authority has been established to implement that policy.

A policy statement on the future directions for the sustainable development of the sea-fishing industry was launched last year. This will involve the development of a comprehensive plan to deliver sustainable fishing for the whitefish fleet, infrastructural development and sustainable management and development of inshore fishing. These are fundamental elements of the challenges facing the future of the commercial fishing industry in Ireland and I assure the Deputy that these urgent issues will receive the necessary degree of time and analysis to ensure an effective outcome. I also assure the Deputy that the views of stakeholders in the industry will be fully taken into account as this important work progresses.

The Department will shortly be inviting applications to tender for a major consultancy study on the whitefish industry. It is hoped that this review will be completed towards the end of this year, following which I will bring forward a plan in full consultation with the sector.