Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 13 Mar 1997

Vol. 476 No. 4

Written Answers. - Fish Processing Industry.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

162 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Marine the plans, if any, he has to further develop the fish processing industry to compensate for the large loss of employment in the fishing industry and to meet market demands for more convenience food. [7307/97]

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Barrett)

I cannot agree with the Deputy that there has been a large loss of employment in the fishing industry. The catching sector is estimated to provide employment for approximately 7,500 people. While there has been a small decline in the level of employment in the sector due to a reduction in the more labour intensive fishing methods, the overall numbers employed in the fisheries, sector as a whole has continued to increase.

Employment in the processing industry has shown consistent increases since the mid 1980's when employment levels were estimated at around 1,450. Current studies indicate that approximately 3,700 people are now employed in fish processing.

This increase in employment is due in part to the strategic investment which has been undertaken in the context of the Processing Measures of the Operational Programme for Fisheries 1994-99. A total of almost £31 million will be invested in fish processing outlets around the coast, attracting some £9.5 million in EU aid over the period of the programme.

To date, 104 projects have been approved under this measure, representing a total investment of £18 million, including £7.7 million in EU aid.