HC Deb 14 October 1976 vol 917 c177W
Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will make a statement about the Northern Ireland Fish Producers' Organisation.

Mr. Dunn

The Northern Ireland Fish Producers' Organisation has a membership representing the owners of approximately 90 fishing boats. It was established in 1975 in accordance with EEC regulations and given official recognition by the Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture on 2nd January 1976.

The organisation has been operating a market support system within its economic area since 26th April 1976; this area covers the whole of the Northern Ireland coast and the North-West coast of England from St. Bees Head to the Scottish border. The organisation qualifies for compensation from EEC funds when fish landed by members fails to reach at least the official EEC withdrawal price when offered for sale for human consumption.