HC Deb 26 March 1973 vol 853 cc255-6W
Captain Orr

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is the estimated total staffing of the Northern Ireland Fishery Authority.

Mr. van Straubenzee

The total number of staff now employed at the harbours which are being transferred to the Fishery Harbour Authority is seven. It is too early to say what changes in staff numbers may be necessary.

Captain Orr

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland where will the headquarters of the Northern Ireland Fishery Authority be situated.

Mr. van Straubenzee

The authority will itself decide the site of its headquarters once it has been set up.

Captain Orr

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will announce the names of the Chairman and members of the Northern Ireland Fishery Authority.

Mr. van Straubenzee

It is hoped to make an announcement soon.

Captain Orr

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether the new Northern Ireland Fishery Authority will publish an annual report; and whether this will require Parliamentary approval.

Mr. van Straubenzee

The Fishery Harbour Authority will not be required to publish an annual report.

Captain Orr

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is the value of the property at Portavogie, Kilkeel and Ardglass which is to be vested in the Northern Ireland Fishery Authority.

Mr. van Straubenzee

There is no ready basis for calculating the value of these harbours. Any attempt at a valuation would involve a disproportionate amount of time and effort.

Captain Orr

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he intends to give the Northern Ireland Fishery Authority responsibility for any harbours in addition to Portavogie, Kilkeel and Ardglass; and if so if he will name the harbours concerned.

Mr. van Straubenzee

The Fishery Harbour Authority will be responsible for all harbours in which commercial fishing is the major activity. At present the only three such harbours in Northern Ireland are Portavogie, Kilkeel and Ardglass.

Captain Orr

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will make statutory provision for the Northern Ireland Fishery Authority to consult with the relevant district councils before implementing any schemes which involve planning permission.

Mr. van Straubenzee

No new statutory provision is necessary. If planning permission is required the authority will have to seek it from the appropriate planning authority in the ordinary way.

Captain Orr

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will introduce a measure of elected representation into the composition of the Northern Ireland Fishery Authority.

Mr. van Straubenzee

No.