Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 206: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the situation regarding Irish commercial fishing vessels landing sea bass; the steps he will take to end discrimination against Irish vessels in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25038/08]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The domestic conservation measures for sea bass are kept under review on a regular basis, in light of scientific assessments by the Central Fisheries Board and the Marine Institute on the state of sea bass stocks. There are three measures in place to protect sea bass:

The (Bass (Conservation of Stocks) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No. 203 of 2006)) prohibits Irish sea-fishing boats from fishing for, landing, transhipping or having on board sea-bass.

The Bass Fishing Conservation Bye-law No. 826 of 2007, (which imposes a bag limit on anglers of two bass in any one period of 24 hours)

The Bass (Restriction on Sale) Regulations 2007 (S.I. No. 367 of 2007) (prohibiting the sale or offer for sale of bass (other than bass which has been imported into the State))

These regulations were introduced following scientific advice received on the subject. I will continue to keep the national conservation measures for sea bass under regular review; in this regard I have asked the Marine Institute to give me an up to date assessment of the current situation as it pertains to sea-bass. Following receipt of the new advice I will consult further with my colleague Eamon Ryan, Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources on the matter.