Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 586: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his proposals to introduce licences for lobster fishermen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1432/06]

Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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Lobster fishermen have been required to be appropriately licensed and registered under the Sea Fisheries Acts since the introduction of the fishing boat register in 1990. Despite this, however, in recent years it was found that a considerable number had failed to regularise their position in this regard. To deal with this problem the scheme for the licensing of traditional pot fishing boats in the Irish inshore fleet was introduced in 2003 with the support of the Commission. This scheme gave established fishermen who had not previously registered their vessels the opportunity to regularise their position. Over 700 applicants were successful and offered licences in 2004. The completion by applicants of the requirements for licensing and registration is in progress at present. It is necessary to finalise the registration of all successful applications under the scheme as soon as possible because of the European Commission's requirement to finalise the fleet capacity limits for Ireland. The Licensing Authority for Sea-Fishing Boats has, therefore, informed remaining applicants who have not yet completed the requirements for licensing that they must do so by 10 February 2006.

The scheme for the licensing of traditional pot fishing boats was an exceptional measure. Any person who now wishes to obtain a fishing boat licence to engage in lobster fishing can apply to the licensing authority, and will be dealt with in the normal way under current sea fishing boat licensing policy which requires the provision of full replacement capacity.

Regarding management and conservation of inshore stocks, I have asked Bord Iascaigh Mhara, BIM, to work with local inshore groups with a view to putting in place strengthened management and conservation measures for inshore stocks around the coast. I understand that BIM is working actively with local groups and will be bringing forward appropriate measures for inshore stocks.