Holly Cairns (Cork South-West, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

612. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine whether it is his intention to proceed with a ban on pair trawling within the six-mile limit; and if so, to provide an update and estimate timeframe for the ban to be implemented. [5991/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In December 2018, a transition period to a ban on vessels over 18 metres trawling in inshore waters, inside the six nautical mile zone was announced. A significant part of the objective of this measure was to manage the fishing effort on sprat stocks which are primarily targeted within inshore waters. This measure, however, was the subject of extended legal proceedings the outcome of which being the measure was overturned.

In February 2024, the Minister held a new public consultation on a review of trawling activity inside the six nautical mile zone and the baselines. The consultation took place over a period of eight weeks and closed on April 12th, 2024. This consultation took place without prejudice.

The purpose of this consultation was to invite stakeholders and interested parties to advise of their views on any changes to policy within the scope of this review. A large volume of submissions - over 5,000 - were received. These submissions will be used to inform a review of trawling activity inside the six nautical mile zone and baselines. All relevant issues will be carefully considered before a decision can be made.