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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 4 Nov 1998

Vol. 496 No. 1

Priority Questions. - Herring Industry.

Michael Finucane

Question:

40 Mr. Finucane asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources when he will introduce the quality scheme promised for the herring fishing fleet in view of the fact that the herring season has been open for five weeks. [22187/98]

The introduction of incentivised quality training programmes for the dry-hold herring fleet and herring processing sectors was one of the key recommendations of the task force on the management and marketing of herring, which I established in November 1997 and which reported to me in March this year. As I have previously advised the House, I secured Government approval in principle to the taking forward of the recommendations of the task force. In line with the EU State Aid Guidelines requirements, Commission approval was sought to the quality training programmes for the herring industry. I am pleased to say that the Commission's approval was given to my proposals.

I can confirm to the House that the quality training programme for the dry-hold herring fleet, which will be run by my Department and BIM is scheduled for early this month. The programme is being staggered over a two week period in order to facilitate ongoing fishing activity by the participants. The objective is to significantly improve standards and operational practices in the dry-hold herring fleet, particularly in relation to handling and discharge of produce. The fleet programme will provide intensive quality training for the skippers and crews of eligible vessels and will incentivise the introduction of on-board quality systems and practices.

The training programme for the herring processing sector will be run jointly by my Department, BIM and the National Food Centre. It will provide intensive quality training for key plant personnel designed to support an in-plant quality programme with a view to maximising product quality and value. A pilot programme was launched on Monday last and the training programme is scheduled to take place before the end of the month.

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