Pat Gallagher (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

518. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to ensure that fisheries are a top priority in the Brexit talks and to further ensure that Irish fisheries interests are fully protected; his plans to link fisheries negotiations with the trade talks during the Brexit negotiations, thus ensuring that fisheries are central to the eventual negotiated outcome of the talks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25591/17]

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

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. We are, however, clear that our objective is to maintain current access to fishing grounds in the UK zone in the Irish Sea, Celtic Sea and north of Donegal and protect Ireland’s quota share for joint fish stocks. 

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. 

I will remain in close contact with fisheries stakeholders as the issues develop and work with them and my fellow fisheries Ministers in the EU 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 all of my European colleagues to ensure that fisheries remain a top priority in the negotiations to come.

As both I and An Taoiseach have stated before, we intend to ensure that fisheries remains high on the Brexit agenda in the EU and that Ireland obtains the best possible outcome from the negotiations.

During the recent visit of Chief Brexit Negotiator, Mr Michel Barnier to Ireland, I met with him and discussed the issues arising for the agri-food sector.  On fisheries,  I explained Ireland's perspective and that it was shared by a number of EU partners.  I am satisfied that  Mr Barnier understands the issues and the potential significance of Brexit for Ireland's fisheries sector.  Mr Barnier agreed with me that fisheries negotiations must be inextricably linked to the wider trade negotiations.  

I also made clear that transitional arrangements are likely to be important for the seafood sector. 

In conclusion, I would like to assure the Deputy that I will be unequivocal in opposing any dilution of our existing EU quota shares, including protecting the benefit to Ireland of the Hague Preferences, and any limitations on our existing rights of access.