asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if he will make a statement on the discussions which have been taking place on the sectoral committee on fisheries; if any reports have been, or will be issued by the committee; the matters under discussion; and any actions being proposed by the committee.

The Sectoral Consultative Committee on the Fishing Industry was set up under the aegis of the Sectoral Development Committee established by the Department of the Taoiseach under terms of reference established by the latter committee. I understand that no reports have been furnished to date but that a final report is expected to be made to the Sectoral Development Committee in the next few months.

Will the Minister confirm newspaper reports that some members have left the committee? If that is correct, can he give the House the reasons for the disagreement?

I am aware of such reports, but I am not aware of the reasons for leaving the committee. The committee have been dealing with the fishing industry and a report is expected quite soon.

I cannot understand how the Minister is not aware of the difficulties because he has representatives from his Department on the committee. It does not appear his representatives are keeping in touch with him. Will he confirm that he has representatives on the committee? I find it strange they are not keeping him aware of what is happening.

I am well aware of what is taking place on the committee. I am awaiting a report on the fishing industry. The reason I am not prepared to give an answer as to why these people left is that I have heard so many reasons already. I am not prepared to give a definitive reason.

Did the people leave because of policy changes or changes in the committee?

I do not know why people walk out of meetings. There may be many reasons for that kind of action. I am not prepared to discuss under this question policy matters which is an internal matter for the committee.

I am Calling Question No. 9.