Vol. 498 No. 1
111 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself as to the potential for further expansion of employment in the sea fishing industry with particular reference to added value procedures and products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26784/98]
There is considerable potential for expansion in terms of jobs and growth in the added value seafood sector, that is, processing and exports. My objective is to secure continued expansion of capacity in the processing sector, combined with improved quality and continuity of supply from the whitefish fleet and growth in acquaculture will deliver additional jobs and position the Irish seafood industry well to expand in existing and new export markets. In addition to ongoing investment support for processing the fleet and aquaculture, I will be seeking further significant funding for the sectors in the next round of Structural Funds.
