Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 April 2014
211. Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide an update on the compensation scheme on replacement pots after the winter storms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18403/14]
View answerEarlier this year, in response to the exceptional loss of pots reported by fishermen as a result of the severe storms experienced in January and February, I introduced a Shellfish Pot Replacement Scheme to assist pot fishermen with the cost of replacing lobster, crab and shrimp pots. The Scheme is to provide 40% of the cost of replacing these lost pots through fixed payments of €24 per lobster/crab pot and €12 per shrimp pot.
The Scheme is being administered by Bord Iascaigh Mhara. I understand that by the closing date of 28 March 2014, BIM had received 151 applications. These applications are being examined by BIM at present. Initial indications are that the Scheme will support the purchase of approximately 6,500 lobster/crab pots and 1,200 shrimp pots, at an estimated cost of approximately €170,000.
BIM has advised me that it hopes to have all applications processed and paid by end May.
