Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Feb 1997

Vol. 475 No. 5

Written Answers - Fishing Industry.

Tony Killeen

Question:

205 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for the Marine the plans, if any, he has to develop the fishing industry in County Clare; the harbour improvement works, if any, which are planned for the county in 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5404/97]

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Barrett)

The Operational Programme for Fisheries 1994-9 is currently providing for a total investment of £140 million in the fishing industry throughout the coastal regions.

Grant-aid approval — national and EU of £824,000, supporting a total investment of £1.8 million has been given for aquaculture and fishing fleet projects in County Clare under the Operational Programme for Fisheries up to the end of 1996. Funding over the forward years of the operational programme will continue to be available for eligible fisheries projects right around the coast, including County Clare.

Grant-aid of approximately £75,000 was provided by my Department towards the construction of a berthing wall-pier at Doonbeg, County Clare in 1996. I have no plans at present for additional investment in port infrastructure in County Clare in 1997.