The sustainable development of the aquaculture industry is a Government priority. A total of £25 million of EU and Exchequer funding has been allocated under the regional programmes of the national development plan to support delivery of overall strategic objectives and targets for the sector.
This level of investment support is more than double the funding made available under the last round. It clearly underlines our commitment to the aquaculture sector as a sustainable, natural, resource based industry providing jobs and economic growth for coastal communities. Shellfish productivity is of major importance in the south and south-west and there is significant scope for further incremental development of both fin fish and shellfish production in the region. We will work with BIM and Údarás na Gaeltachta to ensure that the objective of balanced regional development is delivered through investment programmes for the aquaculture sector around the coast. A new strategic framework for aquaculture development is being finalised in partnership with the industry. The main thrust of the plan is to achieve critical mass in production, diversification into new species, best practice in line with stringent environmental guidelines and high standards of quality assurance which are essential if we are to succeed in the competitive market for high quality seafood products worldwide.
I will shortly publish a report on future strategic directions for the aquaculture sector. The recommendations of the report will critically inform strategies for the aquaculture industry into the future and, along with the national development plan, will help deliver on the goals of critical mass, quality, sustainability, diversification, technology and cost competitiveness.