Ulick Burke (Galway East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 108: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he was informed of the proposal to ban whitefish fishing in area 6A by the EU Commission; if he has conveyed his opposition or other views to the Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43941/08]

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

This matter refers to a recent proposal by the European Commission which calls for the establishment of a moratorium on fishing certain whitefish species in the area off the northwest coast — technically called Area VIa which covers the areas from the south Donegal coast north to north of Scotland. It applies to all waters of a depth less than 200m.

The proposed ban prohibits any fishing activity within this specified area. Certain and very limited derogations are allowed. According to the Commission, their justification for this measure is based on scientific advice which has determined that the stocks of haddock, cod and whiting in the area are in poor shape and need time to recover. The stated purpose of this proposal is to provide "breathing space" for these whitefish species to recover.

Derogations for fishing in the area are to be allowed for fishing of pelagic species, shellfish with pots, and nephrops with 80mm mesh using a Swedish grid and where at least 90% of the catches on board are nephrops. Fishing for saithe and anglerfish will also be allowed.

Prior to the proposal being published, the Commission had not given any advance warning or notification of its intentions. The proposal has been included in Annex III of the Commission's 2009 TAC and Quota proposal, which was published on the 10th November. The TAC and Quota Regulation sets out the various fishing opportunities for Member States for 2009.

I have consulted with the Industry on this proposal and I share its concerns about its content as well as the irregular procedure — especially the lack of consultation — employed by the Commission to bring it forward. It is clear to me that the proposal as it stands would have significant adverse socio-economic impacts on the fishing communities off the northwest coast. It could also cause a significant displacement of fishing effort to other fishing areas, as vessels capable of moving to other areas shift the focus of their operations. This would have major implications for stocks outside of area VIa where increased fishing activity would take place.

I have already raised my concerns with the Commission and am asking for a proper evaluation of the measures by STECF and for full discussions with stakeholders through the Regional Advisory Council. I am liaising closely with the Federation of Irish Fishermen on this issue and will be working hard in advance of, and during, the December Fisheries Council to ensure that any measures agreed at the Council are proportionate, appropriate and take into account the situation of the Irish whitefish fleet in this area.