Fisheries Protection

Thursday, 7 May 2026

Questions (172)

John Connolly

Question:

172. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment further to Parliamentary Question No. 68 of 18 March 2026, for an update on the engagement regarding the establishment by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine of a Food Vision Seafood Sector Group; whether representatives of the recreational angling and charter boat sectors have now been engaged with or consulted as part of this process; the current status and work programme of this group; whether any immediate supports, mitigation measures or transitional arrangements have been identified to date for charter boat operators impacted by the recreational pollack bag limit; when the group is expected to report or make recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33796/26]

View answer

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment (Deputy Timmy Dooley)

I remain conscious of the concerns of the recreational angling and charter boat sectors in relation to the conservation measures being introduced for the recreational fishing of pollack. I recently met with representatives of the sector, to hear directly their concerns regarding the introduction of the recreational bag limit for pollack and to discuss the impact this measure will have on their businesses and on coastal communities.

The introduction of this measure arises from scientific advice regarding the status of pollack and the need to support the long-term sustainability of the species. I fully recognise the importance of the recreational sea angling and charter boat sectors to coastal communities, and I am conscious of the challenges that this measure presents for operators in the sector. While there are currently no specific support or mitigation measures under consideration in relation to these measures, my Department will continue to engage with stakeholders in relation to implementation of recreational conservation measures.