Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023
946. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the reason there is no inclusion of investment in transitioning to climate and nature-compatible fishing gear and methods, which is also central to reducing energy use by using less fuel-intensive methods under Ireland’s EMFAF National Programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36987/23]
View answerThe European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) Seafood Development Programme identifies high level actions which will be undertaken under each of the relevant priorities and specific objectives set out in the EMFAF Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2021/1139). High level actions identified under Specific Objectives 1.1 and 1.6 include reduction in the use of fishing gear most harmful to biodiversity. Under Specific Objectives 1.1 and 1.2 the programme also contains actions to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions in the Irish fleet.
Based on these actions identified in the programme, implementation plans will be developed with approval of the Programme’s Monitoring Committee. This will allow for the development of projects and support schemes by implementing bodies such as Bord Iascaigh Mhara which will assist the fleet in the energy transition and contribute to improved sustainability. The implementation of the EMFAF programme is at an early stage, but when developed, these projects and schemes will likely follow on from valuable work completed under the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) programme which, for example, included industry projects on gear selectivity and grant funding for on board investment under the Sustainable Fisheries Scheme.
However, it is recognised by EU Institutions and Member States that there is need for significant investment, in addition to that provided under the EMFAF, in order to achieve the energy transition. The European Commission issued a communication on the Energy Transition of the EU Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector as part of its Fisheries Package in February. One of the objectives of the Commission’s Communication is that by 2024, the Commission – in close co-operation with the Energy Transition Partnership – will develop a roadmap for the energy transition of the sector towards climate neutrality by 2050. While it is stated that EMFAF can support the energy transition in the sector, it is also recognised that other EU funds can also support the energy transition in the sector.
