Emmet Stagg (Kildare North, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 129: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has instigated a review of the impact of restrictions placed on the days on which boats can put to sea, in order to preserve stocks; if same is forcing fishermen to take unacceptable risks; if he will bring forward measures to enhance the safety and livelihood of fishermen working along the Irish coastline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11351/07]

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

In the context of this question, I assume that the Deputy is referring to the fishing periods specified to Irish fishermen for the targeting of certain species such as mackerel and herring. Their exploitation is largely seasonal, reflecting the normal life cycle, availability and migratory habits of these species in our waters. I have addressed this issue on a number of occasions recently, and have stressed that the management arrangements for these stocks, which are set at national level, are specifically developed and agreed with Irish fishing industry representatives. They are there in order to ensure a fair and equitable share-out of the available quota of these important species so as to protect the livelihood of a greater number of our fishermen.

Given the input of the fishing industry into these measures, I cannot accept that the arrangements force any fisherman to take unacceptable risks in order to exploit the quota allocated to him. In that regard, it is a matter ultimately for the master of each individual vessel to determine the type of fishing operation that is appropriate having regard to the capability of the vessel and the operational and navigational conditions it will have to contend with in order to participate in any given fishery.

At the same time, I am satisfied that, regardless of the legal framework governing the catching and landing of fish, whether demersal or pelagic, there are no circumstances where the control authorities would give precedence to their regulatory responsibilities over consideration for the safety of a fishing vessel or its crew.

All such management measures are subject to ongoing review, in conjunction with the industry, in order to ensure that they continue to meet the needs of promoting sustainable and equitable exploitation of what are increasingly diminishing resources. Safety considerations of course underpin all of the management measures and other requirements imposed on our fishing fleet.