Tommy Broughan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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205. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his Department's input and priorities for the Brexit negotiations on the future of fisheries in British waters in view of the number of shared fisheries and the emergence of a fisheries lobby group in the European Parliament; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22470/17]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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At this stage it is impossible to say with certainty what effect Brexit will have on the Irish fishing industry. We do not know yet what changes the UK may seek to the current arrangements.

In theory, the UK could indeed seek to gain larger quota shares at the expense of others. However, that could only happen if the UK were content to ignore the potential repercussions that would certainly arise from the EU side.

Any attempt by the UK to increase its current quota shares at the expense of Ireland and others must, and will be resisted strenuously.

Earlier this year, I hosted a dedicated Civic Dialogue on the potential impacts of Brexit for the seafood sector as whole. This was very well attended by stakeholders from across the industry and gave a clear insight into the real dangers that a 'hard' Brexit presents for our fishing communities. Representatives from across the seafood sector also met with An Taoiseach and myself to discuss the potential threats arising from Brexit.

I will remain in close contact with fisheries stakeholders as the issues develop and work with them to ensure that we are all fully prepared for what are likely to be extremely complex negotiations.

I am also continuing to work closely with my European colleagues to ensure that fisheries remain a top priority in the negotiations to come.

I welcome the establishment of the European Fisheries Alliance, which includes representatives from the Irish industry, and believe that they will be a strong and constructive voice throughout the  negotiations. It is clear that the alliance shares the concerns and priorities of Ireland and the other fishing Member States, namely that existing shares and access must be protected.

In conclusion, I would like to assure the Deputy that, working with all stakeholders, I will be unequivocal in opposing any dilution of our existing EU quota shares and any limitations on our existing rights of access.