Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 16 Oct 2001

Vol. 542 No. 2

Written Answers. - Harbours and Piers.

Bernard Allen

Question:

169 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the number of applications received to extend or repair piers in County Cork; the areas for which these have been applied; the amount applied for in each case; and the amount allocated. [23997/01]

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

The whitefish fleet development programme under the National Development Plan 2000-2006 was launched in June 2001. The core objectives of the programme are to enhance the safety, quality and competitiveness of the whitefish fleet and to improve working conditions and product handling and quality.

The new programme, which will support total investment of £155 million up to 2006, provides grant aid under a number of schemes: introduction of new vessels, introduction of modern second-hand vessels, modernisation of existing vessels, purchase and installation of safety equipment and special assistance for young fishermen and women acquiring their first vessel. Bord Iascaigh Mhara is assessing applications under the programme and will be giving priority to projects which meet diversification and sustainability objectives. I have arranged for a copy of the fleet development programme to be forwarded to Deputy Allen.