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Fishing Industry Development

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 November 2012

Tuesday, 6 November 2012

Questions (898)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

898. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the total number of jobs generated by the fishing industry here at all levels; the extent to which this might be increased or expanded in the forthcoming year in view of the on-going economic situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47936/12]

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Written answers

Both Food Harvest 2020 and Action Plan for Jobs 2012 recognise that most of the potential for increased employment in the seafood sector is in the areas of processing and aquaculture. Food Harvest 2020 aims to increase employment in the seafood sector as a whole, from the present approximately 11,000 to 14,000 by 2020.

I am advised by Bord Iascaigh Mhara that some 2,870 people are presently employed in the seafood processing industry. Arising specifically from an investment of €15.5 million by 21 seafood processing companies in 2012, with €3.2 million in financial assistance under the seafood processing scheme operated by BIM, 142 additional jobs and increased sales of value added seafood products of nearly €44 million are expected to be created by 2015. That is a significant level of investment by any standards, and together with previous investment of €7 million by 21 companies in 2011 and €2.7 by eight companies in 2010, with the support of the seafood processing scheme, is setting a clear path to achievement of the potential of the seafood sector to create sustainable employment in peripheral coastal communities.

In relation to aquaculture, it is intended to radically expand the production of Irish organic farmed salmon by creating new fish farming production areas in deeper waters. The placement of farms in deep waters will ensure that there is no impact on Natura 2000 sites. BIM estimates that just one of these production areas could generate over 100 Million Euro in exports p.a. and create 350 direct jobs. A further 150 jobs will be created indirectly in the service sector, supplying fish feed, netting, transportation and other services.

BIM, working with the Marine Institute, is currently investigating suitable sites. An application for an aquaculture licence in respect of one of these sites in Galway Bay has been submitted to the Department by BIM. This application is currently being assessed in accordance with the provisions of the 1997 Fisheries (Amendment) Act.

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