HC Deb 29 July 1997 vol 299 c159W
Mr. John D. Taylor

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland for what reasons no appointments were made following interviews for places on the Northern Ireland Fishery Harbour Authority; and when appointments will be made. [10297]

Mr. Paul Murphy

The appointment process did not comply fully with the guidance within the code of practice for public appointments and the interviews are being rescheduled with the involvement of an independent panel member.

The Department of Agriculture hopes to fill the vacancies by early September 1997.

Mr. Taylor

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if she will make a statement on Government policy on the future of the Northern Ireland Fishery Harbour Authority. [10299]

Mr. Murphy

The Government continue to regard the Northern Ireland Fishery Harbour Authority as the appropriate body to operate, maintain and develop the three fishery harbours at Ardglass, Kilkeel and Portavogie. There are no plans to alter the statutory position of the authority.

Mr. Taylor

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many persons representing fishing interests are represented on the Northern Ireland Fishery Harbour Authority. [10298]

Mr. Murphy

There are two persons from the fishing community on the Northern Ireland Fishery Harbour Authority.