Bernard J. Durkan
Question:107 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the potential for employment creation in the fishing industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22074/00]
Written Answers. - Fishing Industry.
The seafood industry, comprising fishing, aquaculture, processing and ancillary sectors currently employs close to 16,000 people directly between full-time and part-time jobs. The industry generates an estimated additional 9,000 jobs in downstream activities.
The seafood industry offers valuable employment opportunities in the regions and coastal communities, and there is considerable potential for further expansion with consequent benefits in terms of improved regional distribution of economic activity and employment. The Government is committed to maximising that potential. Investment support of £171 million under the national development plan is being targeted to deliver a sustainable, safe, competitive and quality driven seafood industry. An immediate strategic objective is to ensure that the industry is well positioned to address the challenges posed by a highly competitive labour market and emerging labour shortages. The task force on training and employment in the seafood sector is finalising its recommendations on strategies to enhance the sector's ability to recruit new entrants and retain existing personnel. It is also considering initiatives to meet the existing employment demand through, for example, sourcing non-national labour which BIM, working with the industry is already actively addressing. I expect to take delivery of the task force report in December.