asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he is aware of the urgent need for fish unloaders at Howth and Clogherhead; and, if so, when he expects to be in a position to provide these unloaders.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Provision of Fish Unloaders.
55.
I understand that the provision of fish unloaders is under active consideration by An Bórd Iascaigh Mhara.
Could the Minister give any indication as to when they might be provided? Is he aware that there is a considerable loss of industrial type fish because of the difficulty of handling it without unloaders?
I am afraid I could not tell the Deputy exactly when these can be provided. The Deputy probably knows this is bound up with the provision of a fishmeal factory for which unloaders would be necessary and would be provided in conjunction with it. The question of the fishmeal factory is not yet finalised as there has been a delay.
Is the Minister aware that even if the fishmeal factory never materialises, there is need for this facility?
I think there is a case for it, especially in Howth.
I agree.