asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the number of crab factories which have been established on the coast since 1969; and the number now operating.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Crab Factories.
23.
Only one factory engaged solely in crab processing has been established since 1969. The factory is not operating at present.
Has the Parliamentary Secretary any explanation why this factory has not been successful?
The main explanation is that the factory confined its processing operations to crabs. Experience has taught us that it is extremely difficult for a fish processing factory to be viable if it concentrates exclusively on one species. Unfortunately, the factory in question closed but there are a number of factories in operation which deal with a variety of species of fish, including crab.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary be prepared to state whether the inability of this factory to continue was due to a lack of supplies of crab or whether it was due to lack of expertise on the part of management?
This House is regarded as a privileged forum but I would be slow to reflect here on the management of any concern outside.
Is it envisaged that the factory will be put into operation again? Will it reopen during the current season, for example?
If it were to reopen it would need to extend its operations so as to process fish other than crab. Both the Department and BIM would be anxious that a factory of this nature would expand its activities so that it might have a bright future.
How is the plant at Schull progressing?
It is doing very well. I understand that the Deputy was in the area at the weekend. He can be assured always of a reasonable welcome there.
I am a little perturbed about the qualification.
The welcome is genuine. We regard the Deputy now as one of our own.
Is that plant involved in species of fish other than crab?
It is. On the occasion of the Deputy's next visit to the area I shall take him through the plant.