Seán Ryan (Dublin North, Labour)
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Question 98: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the key aims and principles of Ireland's negotiating position for the forthcoming EU Fisheries Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34374/05]

Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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Although the next Council of Agriculture and Fisheries Ministers takes place from 22-24 November, I assume the Deputy is referring to the Council which will take place in December and decide on the total allowable catches, TACs, and quotas and associated conditions for fish stocks for 2006.

The priority for Ireland at this Council will be to achieve a balanced outcome that will provide for a sustainable future for the Irish fishing industry. The need to take effective conservation measures in order that fish stocks are managed and exploited on a sustainable basis is an over-riding imperative for both the Government and the Irish fishing industry. Within that context, the primary aim will be to ensure that Irish fishermen all around the coast will have available to them the maximum possible quantity and range of fishing possibilities in 2006 that can be justified on a sustainable basis.

The Commission's proposals for 2006, which will be published in the coming weeks, will be considered in the context of the scientific advice, current measures in place, including recovery plans and effort restrictions, and in consultation with industry representatives to determine a national position, taking account of the need to achieve sustainable fishing opportunities for the Irish industry. In so far as Ireland is concerned, this means the setting of catch limits for Irish fishermen in respect of some 40 fish stocks, mainly in western waters around Ireland's coast, as well as effort limitation measures for certain gears in certain waters. I will maintain close contact with industry representatives throughout these negotiations with regard to securing sustainable fishing opportunities for Irish fishermen.