I propose to take Questions Nos. 530 and 554 together.
The Salmon Hardship Scheme of some €25 million, details of which I published recently, is intended to provide a measure of relief to individuals in line with the level of hardship likely to be experienced based on their recent catch history. The overall sum takes account of the levels of payment recommended by the Independent Group and the recorded catch history of the eligible licences.
An additional €5 million is being provided under a Community Support Scheme. Officials in the Department and the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs are examining how to maximise the impact of this scheme prior to finalisation and publication in the coming weeks.
I believe the overall fund of some €30 million to be a fair and reasonable allocation, which does not need to be modified.