Spanish fishing rights
Spain’s fishing access in Irish waters derives from the London Fisheries Convention and Community quotas for hake and by-catches; the Minister said the Community regards the 200-mile extension as superseding the Convention provision and negotiations on a framework agreement continue. Deasy questioned Spanish licences and alleged poaching, citing 11 convictions and seeking withdrawal of concessions; the Minister lacked licence figures and said no agreement would be finalised before Ireland’s interests were protected.
asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the fishing rights that Spain has within this country's 200 mile exclusive fishery limit.
Comment on this
Under the terms of the 1964 London Fisheries Convention Spain has the right to fish in certain areas in the six to 12 mile zone off the west and south-west coasts of Ireland.
Since the extension of fishing limits to 200 miles by Community member states on 1st January, 1977, Spain has been allocated fish quotas autonomously by the Community on the basis of Council regulations. These quotas, a part of which can be taken in the Irish zone, are only for hake and its by-catches. The Council regulations specify that Spanish vessels fishing in the waters of Community member states must be licensed by the Community. Only a limited number of boats are licensed to fish at any one time in the fishing zones of member states.
Comment on this
As a result of legislation introduced on 1st January, 1977, is it true that the Spanish have no rights whatsoever within our 200 mile limit?
Comment on this
It is true that the European Community take the view that the extension to 200 miles supersedes the reference I have agreed to, but, nonetheless, negotiations are continuing with the Spanish in relation to a framework agreement.
Comment on this
I understand that a number of licences have been granted by the EEC to Spain and I should like the Minister to tell the House how many such licences there are in existence.
Comment on this
That goes beyond what the Deputy asked me in the question. I do not have the figures.
Comment on this
In view of the blatant degree of poaching being carried out by the Spaniards—so far this year there have been 11 convictions—would the Minister consider withdrawing the concession that has been given?
Comment on this
I can assure the Deputy that the Government are concerned that no final agreement will be made with Spain, or any other third country, until the internal fishing regime is determined to protect our own interests. I will pass on to the Minister for Fisheries the Deputy's concern about this matter. I am not aware of the number of licences.