David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 38: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when the review of the Irish whitefish fleet and available fishing opportunities in the whitefish sector will commence; when this review will be completed; the way in which he will involve the whitefish fishing industry when his Department considers policy changes and options for change to deliver a long-term sustainable and economically viable future for the whitefish sector here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14543/05]

Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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As part of the Government's commitment to set out a long-term strategy for the sustainable development of the fishing industry, as set down in the programme for Government, I recently announced that a review of fleet structure and available fishing opportunities in the whitefish sector would take place. The first part of this review will involve an independent economic assessment of the whitefish fleet to bring forward options for change in current arrangements and practices that will deliver a long-term sustainable and viable future for the sector. This will be carried out with the full involvement of the industry. The second part will involve the introduction of policy changes and management arrangements.

I will shortly invite applicants to tender for this economic assessment and I anticipate that the study will commence immediately upon the selection of the successful applicant and be completed in autumn 2005. I intend to examine the findings of the economic assessment, once submitted to me, in full consultation with all relevant stakeholders. I will then be in a position to consider what policy changes and options are needed to deliver a long-term sustainable and economically viable future for the whitefish sector.