Ahern meets fishermen to discuss concerns

Marine Minister Dermot Ahern is meeting with fishermen's groups this afternoon to discuss ongoing concerns about the so-called Irish Box.

The fishing industry is seeking clarification of the legal position surrounding the restrictions on foreign trawlers fishing in the 50-mile exclusion zone.

The Spanish government has said it believes the restrictions expired on New Year's Day, but the country's main fishing organisation has promised not to increase its activities in the zone.

At present, just 40 Spanish trawlers are allowed to fish in the Irish Box at any one time.