Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 29: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his Department will make a national submission to the EU consultation on the future maritime policy of the Union recently announced by President Barroso; his views on the fisheries policy in the United Kingdom, a number of whose political parties are planning to re-examine Britain's membership of the Common Fisheries Policy; his further views on any possible impact of this debate on the future of Ireland's fisheries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14382/05]

Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The European Commission announced on 2 March 2005 its decision to launch a consultation process on a future maritime policy for the EU. A task force, chaired by Commissioner Borg, is to be established to prepare a consultation paper on developing an integrated strategy for Europe's seas. The publication of this document is not scheduled until the first half of 2006.

It is expected that the paper will cover a wide range of issues that are under the remit of my Department and other Departments and agencies, including transport, shipbuilding, tourism, fishing, water quality, oil and gas extraction to the conservation of species and the protection of the marine environment. When the consultation paper is available, my Department will examine the publication with other relevant bodies and contribute to the development of future policy on the areas under its remit. With regard to my views on the fisheries debate in the general election in the United Kingdom, I consider that it would be inappropriate for me to make a statement on this matter in the context of the upcoming general election. I do not, however, consider that this debate will impact on the future of Ireland's fisheries. It is a matter for ourselves, within the framework of the EU Common Fisheries Policy, to deliver a sustainable future for our fishermen and coastal communities dependent on fishing.