Liam Kavanagh
Question:29 Mr. Kavanagh asked the Minister for the Marine if he will outline the future for the shell fishing industry; the steps he has taken to encourage this industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Shellfishing Industry.
I would like to assure the Deputy that the Government remain committed to the continued development of the shellfish industry, and to the development of the aquaculture sector as a whole.
The shellfish industry is set for continued expansion and has the potential to reach 35,000 tonnes by 1996 with commensurate increases in employment. Output was over 20,000 tonnes in 1991 with employment reaching over one thousand jobs on a whole-time and part-time basis. The industry offers a significant source of supplementary income for many people in disadvantaged coastal areas. I was particularly pleased that the recent ESRI Report on the Aquaculture Sector stressed the major contribution made by shellfish culture to economic development and employment in coastal regions.
Markets are now very buoyant for the key shellfish species, which are mussels, oysters and clams. This will encourage further sustainable growth in output. The commercial development of new species such as scallop and abalone is also showing promise and will contribute to overall output over the next few years.
To maximise the potential of the sector, and bearing in mind existing budgetary constraints, I have directed BIM to give the highest priority to assisting the shellfish industry with financial, technical and market support services. State support for the industry is being complemented by the European Community which last year approved the Irish programme for aquaculture development in the period 1992-1996.