219. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he is aware of the concerns raised by organising committees of small regattas regarding the proposed three fish bag limit for pollock fishing; the possible impact of such limits on the participants of such regattas; the negative impact it may have on the success of such regattas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46488/26]

Article 12 of Council Regulation (EU) 2026/249 (EU Fishing Opportunities 2026) provides for a daily recreational bag limit of three pollack per fisher. This measure has been implemented in Ireland through the Pollack Fishing Conservation Bye-Law No. 1028 of 2026, which came into effect on 1 June 2026.

This bag limit has been introduced as a conservation measure to support the long-term sustainability of pollack stocks and was adopted by the EU following scientific advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), which indicated that the levels of pollack stocks are low and catches should be restricted.

I am aware of the concerns of the recreational angling sector in relation the potential impact of this measure and I recognise the important contribution that events, such as regattas and angling competitions, make to local communities and tourism. While I appreciate the challenges this measure may present, I hope that these events can continue within the conservation framework now in place.

The overarching objective here, both at EU and national level, is to ensure that the species numbers are sustained for future years.