Vol. 524 No. 2
122 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources his views on the finding of consultants (details supplied) that investment of £60 million would be required over the next five years for fish farming; the steps he will take to ensure that such investment is available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22023/00]
The Circa report which was published in June provides a detailed strategic analysis of future directions and opportunities for the aquaculture sector. The report recommends strategies to achieve critical mass and value added in production, diversification, best environmental practice, quality and innovation. Its recommendations are critically informing investment support strategies for the sector under national development plan programmes.
EU and Exchequer funding of £25 million has been allocated under the two regional operational programmes to support investment of over £60 million in the aquaculture sector up to 2006. This level of investment support, which is fully in line with the Circa finding, is more than double the funding available under the last round, 1994-99, and underlines the Government's commitment to the sustainable development of the aquaculture sector.
