Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 22 Nov 2000

Vol. 526 No. 4

Written Answers. - Fishing Industry Development.

Ivan Yates

Question:

199 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if the Government is putting in place a training programme with a full career structure to ensure that there are adequate numbers of persons available to the continuation of the fishing industry; and if he will set out his Department's objectives in relation to the training of adequate crews in view of the staff shortages being experienced for trawler operators. [27047/00]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Fahey)

A task force on training and employment in the sea fishing and aquaculture Industries was established in October 1999 to examine and advise on the factors impacting on the creation and maintenance of employment in the sector. The terms of reference specifically asked the task force to review training qualifications and career structures.

The task force is in the process of finalising its report. I expect to receive the report shortly and I look forward to studying its conclusions and recommendations with interest.