Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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58. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department has considered the views of fishermen expressed to him during his recent visit to Dingle, County Kerry; if he has proposals in relation to the way he can address the concerns raised by them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60433/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy referenced, I met with local fishers and representatives of fishing organisations during my visit to the Dingle Fishery Harbour Centre in September 2021. These were part of a series of meetings I had with seafood and marine stakeholders during my trip to County Kerry, which also included visits to Fenit and Cromane.

In Dingle, I had constructive discussions with fishers operating both offshore and inshore of our southwest coast. Among the issues raised by these fishers was their submissions to the Seafood Sector Task Force and their requests for financial supports in light of impacts from Brexit and COVID-19. I received the Final Report of the Task Force in October, and I am examining its recommendations with a view to implementing a comprehensive response to these impacts on our fishing sector and coastal communities.

Some fishers in Dingle raised the issue of rates and charges for services at the Fishery Harbour Centre there. I have asked my Department to reflect on these, as the current rates and charges order is dated. A public consultation would be required on any proposals in that regard.

A query also was raised regarding the minimum mesh size for the hake fishery. I can advise that Ireland would not support any changes that reduce mesh sizes, as indicated in the Programme for Government, where there is a clear ambition to protect fish stocks and ensure a sustainable hake fishery in the longer-term.

The porcupine nephrops fishery was also discussed. Consultation on this fishery, involving fishing industry representatives, takes place at the Quota Management Advisory Committee (QMAC). The QMAC makes regular recommendations to me regarding managing the quota for this fishery.

As you will appreciate, I continue to consider the views and concerns of our fishers and other stakeholders on an ongoing basis. I will continue to work with fishers and their representatives to support the Irish seafood sector and our coastal communities in achieving their potential.