asked the Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestry if he is aware that no new fishing boats have been built in the last few years while most other countries are expanding their fishing fleets; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

In recent years there has been a falling off in demand from fishermen for new vessels. Nevertheless since 1 January 1983 48 new vesels have jointed the Irish fishing fleet. At present a total of 16 vessels have been approved for BIM financing. A number of secondhand vessels have also joined the fleet. Because of difficulties being experienced by some boat owners in meeting loan repayments, priority is being given to the modernisation of vessels in the existing fleet in order to improve productivity and to increase the viability of individual vessels. However, applications for financial assistance for new vesels are also considered on their merits.