Minister Connick met local fishermen from the Irish Fish Producers Organisation (IFPO) and listened to their views on a range of issues including management of the herring stocks, the proposals on the setting Total Allowable Catches and quotas for 2011, which will be decided at the December EU Fisheries Council on 13/14 December, issues relating to the management of inshore stocks and a range of other issues.
The Minister also visited local fish processing companies, O Cathain Iasc and De Brun Iasc Teo Dingle. He also took the opportunity to meet individual fishermen and mussel farmers.
Minister Connick said "This visit to Dingle completes my schedule of visits to Fishery Harbour Centres around the coast. I found the visit very useful. We are facing a challenging EU Fisheries Council in December and it is very important for me to have a good understanding of the issues and concerns that impact on fishermen and their operations. I was very impressed with the professional approach of fishermen to their business and the employment being generated both in terms of fishing activity and processing in Dingle".
Minister Connick took the opportunity to view the emergency remedial works to the marina which are currently underway. An investigation into the condition of the piles supporting the marina earlier this year had revealed that there had been a significant deterioration in the condition of the piles supporting the marina, as a result of accelerated low water corrosion. The deterioration had the potential to adversely affect the safety of the marina users and indeed rendered the marina potentially vulnerable in an extreme weather event. The Minister had sanctioned an investment of €550,000 earlier this year in order to replace the existing piles.
He said "I am happy to see the continued investment at Dingle Fishery Harbour Centre and in particular today to see at first hand the works being carried out on the marina. This investment will continue to build on the success of Dingle Fishery Harbour Centre with benefits accruing to both the harbour and Dingle itself which of course continues to be a popular tourist destination".
The contract for the emergency remedial works to the marina was awarded to Carillion Irishenco Ltd and is scheduled for completion by the year end.
Connick Visits Dingle Fishery Harbour Centre
IRELAND - Minister of State Sean Connick has visited Dingle Fishery Harbour Centre to meet local fishermen and hear at first hand their views and concerns on the fishing industry.
