Written answers

Tuesday, 30 May 2006

Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

Fishing Industry Development

8:00 pm

Photo of Joe CostelloJoe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 174: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will provide details of his recent meeting with representatives of the sea-fishing industry; his proposals for a comprehensive strategy for the sea-fishing sector; the challenges it faces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20620/06]

Photo of John BrowneJohn Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

There was a wide-ranging and constructive discussion on a variety of issues of importance to the sector at the recent meeting with representatives of the Irish fishing industry. The discussion focused on current difficulties facing the industry covering quota allocations, fuel prices and declining fish stocks. There was a very good discussion on possible steps that might be taken to alleviate the situation for vessel owners and processors. There was a recognition that many of the current problems affecting the industry were of a structural nature that needed to be tackled in a concerted and focused manner.

Consensus was reached at the meeting on the need for the development of a comprehensive strategy to address these problems. The primary objective of this strategy will be to secure a sustainable and profitable Irish seafood sector that delivers the maximum possible returns to fishing communities around the coast. I anticipate that the strategy will be completed by this Autumn and that it will map out, on a prioritised basis, all necessary initiatives from both the public and private sectors to deliver this objective.

The sector currently faces a number of significant challenges and it is clear that it is not operating at present in an economically optimal way, due mainly to the adverse impacts of high fuel costs and reduced quotas. I believe, however, that this situation can be resolved satisfactorily. I would consider that the main challenge facing the sector is to deliver an environmentally sustainable seafood sector that maximises employment and economic activity in Ireland's communities dependent on fisheries.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.