Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Management of the National Mackerel quota is set down in Ministers Policy which has been developed and put in place over a number of years.   The allocation of 400 tonnes for a fishery for smaller vessels using hook and line as a means of fishing was set down in Ministerial Policy in 2010.  The Minister amended the Mackerel policy in July 2017 after intensive review and public consultation. This amendment did not involve the hook and line fishery.  The mackerel Policy sets down that the hook and line fishery for vessels under 15m in overall length receive 400t.  This allocation for the fishery has been landed, and indeed exceeded and, on that basis, I had no option but to close this fishery.  

In order to amend Mackerel Policy, I must be satisfied that there is satisfactory evidence of changed circumstances to justify a policy review.  If I consider there is a case for review of any aspect policy, it would require due process involving an assessment of all issues arising, including full public consultation.  

There has been for the past 20 years or so, intensive competition within the industry for access to and a higher share of the mackerel quota. The EU/U.K. Trade and Co-operation Agreement provides for the transfer of 26% of Ireland’s mackerel quota by 2026 to the U.K.   This will only increase demands for higher shares of Ireland’s quota from all sectors within the fishing fleet.  It is worth noting that the 400t for the hook and line fishery has not been reduced.  Unfortunately the situation is that if there is an increase for any sector, such as the hook and line fishery, it must be taken from others who are already facing significant cuts under the EU/ U.K. TCA.