Desmond J. O'Malley
Question:29 Mr. O'Malley asked the Minister for the Marine the reason for the delay in granting approval for the construction of a new ice plant at Union Hall, West Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17538/95]
Written Questions. - Cork Ice Plant.
The ice supply development programme is a major component of the drive to assist the fishing industry to achieve significant improvements in quality and hygiene standards. BIM's current ice plant programme is supported by EU funding under the fisheries operational programme 1994-1999. The immediate priority under the programme for next year is to complete work in progress on new ice plants at Greencastle and Rossaveal.
Over and above these ongoing commitments and in light of available EU funding which is limited, the Department is currently receiving, in consultation with BIM, the priorities and options for further investment in ice plants at key fishery harbours.
The Department and BIM agree that a new ice plant of sufficient capacity to meet the needs of all users at Union Hall should be provided as soon as possible. A major investment programme in the port itself has recently been completed and operations there are set to expand with a commensurate increase in fish landings and in the demand for ice. The existing ice capacity can, I understand, cater for a substantial proportion of the expected growth in demand but only in the short-term. The Department and BIM are therefore assessing the overall funding options with a view to progressing the Union Hall project as soon as possible.
In that context I am aware that the Union Hall fishermen's company has proposed undertaking the investment itself if EU funding can be made available. This proposal is being examined on its merits although such a strategy would mark a significant departure from existing policies on ice plant supply and management. The main constraint on the project at the moment is that available EU funding for the ice plant programme is committed up to end 1997.