asked the Minister for Fisheries if EEC grants are available to purchasers of fishing boats under 50 feet; and, if not, if he will use his best efforts to ensure that a change is made in the regulations in this regard.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fishing Boat Grants.
4.
Under the existing FEOGA Individual Projects Scheme of the EEC, fishing vessels under 50 feet do not normally qualify for grants.
However, the EEC Commission's proposals for aiding the restructuring of the Community's inshore fishing industry which it is hoped will come into effect in 1978, will replace the FEOGA Individual Projects Scheme in so far as fishing vessels are concerned, and it is my intention to ensure that all Irish vessels will come within the scope of these proposals.