Vol. 410 No. 1
4 Mrs. Barnes asked the Minister for the Marine if his Department will aid investment in developing the fishing, processing and exporting of eels; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the potential of the eel harvest is enormous and would fully justify a very substantial investment; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The granting of aid investment does not fall within the remit of my Department. However, I have been advised by my Department that the development of farming facilities for eels is a matter which BIM are actively pursuing.
My Department are currently involved in an in-depth study of the Irish eel industry and its potential for development. The study is being undertaken on a national basis and covers all aspects of the industry from source of product, development, stock, source of additional elvers, legislation, and the potential viability of an improved export product. When the results of this study are complete I will be in a better position to initiate whatever measures may be necessary. It is the intention that the study will be completed before the end of the year.
