John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 91: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources further to his recent announcement that he plans to develop a comprehensive strategy to take the marine sector forward, the timeframe in place for the development of such a strategy; the persons who will be involved in developing said strategy; if a public consultation process will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20602/06]

John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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I believe that there is an urgent requirement to develop a comprehensive strategy to ensure a sustainable and profitable future for the Irish seafood sector. The sector is currently experiencing considerable difficulties, due in particular to the necessity to implement strengthened conservation measures to address declining fish stocks as well as greatly increased fuel costs as a result of developments in international oil markets.

These factors dictate the importance of proceeding quickly with the proposed strategy and I intend therefore that it should be completed by this Autumn. This timeframe will, in particular, permit its results and conclusions to be fully considered in the context of the National Strategic Plan, which will be required under the European Fisheries Fund covering the period 2007 to 2013. It is proposed to appoint an independent leader of this strategy initiative and I would hope to be in a position to announce details in this regard at an early date.

The process of developing this strategy will be highly consultative. It will embrace all of the key stakeholders including fishermen, processors, aquaculture interests and also local community representatives generally. I am also pleased to inform the Deputy that public consultation meetings will be held at a number of locations around the country, and I have already asked BIM to begin the necessary preparations.

Insofar as the terms of reference are concerned, these are currently being finalised. I have invited comments from sectoral representatives as well as from the Oireachtas Committee on Communications, Marine and Natural Resources. I believe that this inclusive approach is extremely important and will contribute to an effective outcome to this initiative.