End 1997 statistics show 3,096 whole time equivalent jobs in the aquaculture sector. Of these 2,029 were in the shellfish industry, 971 were in the finfish sector and the remaining 96 were employed in direct services or consultancy capacities.
The Irish aquaculture sector is producing over 38,000 tonnes of fish and shellfish per annum with a value of over £58 million to the economy. This represents a steady growth curve from small beginnings in the 1980s and the sector is an increasingly significant contributor to Irish seafood exports and now supplies over 25 per cent of the raw material needs of the indigenous fish processing industry.
In order to maximise the potential of the aquaculture sector for growth and jobs a strategic review has been commissioned. I have mandated the consultants to undertake a comprehensive economic analysis of the Irish aquaculture industry by reference to domestic and global factors, taking a medium to long-term approach. The consultants will also recommend on future development strategies for the aquaculture industry in Ireland with particular emphasis on overcoming perceived constraints and on maximising sustainable jobs production and competitiveness.
The study is to be completed early in 1999 and the results will inform and guide policy development as well as the strategic approach to job targets and investment post 2000 by BIM and Údarás na Gaeltachta as well as the industry itself.