Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 June 2021
606. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will increase the mackerel quota for boats of less than 15 metres in length to 3,000 tonnes annually effective from 1 July 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34889/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe mackerel allocation of 400 tonnes for a fishery for under 15 meter vessels using hook and line as a means of fishing was set down in Policy in 2010. The then Minister amended the Mackerel policy in July 2017 after intensive review and public consultation. This amendment did not involve the hook and line fishery. The mackerel Policy sets down that the hook and line fishery for vessels under 15m in overall length receive 400t.
In order to amend Mackerel Policy, I must be satisfied that there is satisfactory evidence of changed circumstances to justify a policy review. If I consider there is a case for review of any aspect policy, it would require due process involving an assessment of all issues arising, including full public consultation.
There has been, for the past 20 years or so, intensive competition within the industry for access to and a higher share of the mackerel quota. The EU/U.K. Trade and Co-operation Agreement provides for the transfer of 26% of Ireland’s mackerel quota by 2026 to the U.K. This will only increase demands for higher shares of Ireland’s quota from all sectors within the fishing fleet. The Deputy should be aware that the 400t for the hook and line fishery has not been reduced and has remained the same as in previous years.
Unfortunately, the situation is that if there is an increase for any sector in the allocation made available, such as for the boats less than 15 meters in the hook and line fishery, it must be taken from others who are already facing significant cuts under the EU/ U.K. TCA.
