Six-mile sustainable fishing policy
Deputy Connolly sought clarification on implementing the policy restricting large vessels in the six-mile zone after an earlier court ruling. The Taoiseach said legal advice and consultation had been undertaken and promised details on the implementation instrument.
Over seven years ago, the Government made a very good decision to bring in a policy for sustainable fishing in the 6-mile nautical zone. The policy was to prohibit big boats, over 18 m, from fishing in that zone. Unfortunately, that decision was held invalid by the Court of Appeal on a very narrow ground. The Government went back to basics and had a consultation process to bring in another policy. It was announced in July that the Government intended to implement the new policy from 1 October. I cannot see where the policy directive is. I want to welcome the decision that was made to implement the new policy directive from 1 October so that we will stop the unsustainable fishing of sprat. Where is the policy directive? Can the Taoiseach guide me to it and assure me that it will be implemented from 1 October?
Comment on this
I engaged with the Ministers of State, Deputies Dooley and Christopher O'Sullivan, on this issue following the consultation. Legal advice was also sought. I understand a year was required to implement the policy. I will come back to the Deputy on the actual-----
Comment on this
It was to be eased in, but it is not-----