Vol. 514 No. 2
5 Mr. Sheehan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the plans, if any, his Department has for the aquaculture industry under the operational programme 2000 to 2006; and the amount of finance allocated in this regard. [3831/00]
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.
I am disappointed with the Minister of State's reply. He has not specified the amount of finance to be allocated to the aquaculture industry under the national development plan. We do not know how much will be put aside in the plan for the development of this valuable industry. A total investment of £62.5 million—
It is Question Time, Deputy.
—is needed urgently to develop the aquaculture and mariculture industries. These two industries are not subject to quotas so there is unlimited potential for their development. I am amazed at the Minister's feeble response to my question. He has not outlined the amount of money to be allocated. This is a "live horse and get grass" policy. It is a despicable reply to a question—
The Deputy must confine himself to questions.
—about something which means so much to the livelihoods of people living on our coastline.
The horse to which the Deputy refers is healthy and will live to get the grass it needs. I am confident that work will continue on strengthening and streamlining the various support systems. I have indicated that £25 million will be put in place.
That is a pittance.
As of now, we have not received applications nor are there applications in the pipeline for more than that amount. Aquaculture has developed substantially. We regard it as a strategic and sustainable industry. Any sound application that comes before me will be dealt with.
