Traditional Fishers’ Rights in Designated Areas
Asked whether traditional fishermen’s rights would be protected before new areas are designated, the Minister said public inquiries allow all affected interests to present their views and that these will be considered.
Will the Minister give an assurance that the rights of traditional fishermen will be protected before new areas are designated?
Comment on this
The Deputy will be aware that it has been the practice to hold public inquiries in the different areas before designation orders are made. At those public inquiries traditional fishermen, those with anchorage, berthage and other rights, are given an opportunity to present their case. I am satisfied that adequate opportunity is given to the various interests to put forward their observations at those public inquiries. I can assure the Deputy that no area will be designated without the views of all interests involved, including traditional fishermen, being taken into consideration.