Robert Molloy
Ceist:39 D'fhiafraigh Mr. Molloy den Aire na Mara an bhfuil eolas aige ar obair Chairde na Mara; an gcuirfidh sé in iúl cén tacaíocht atá sé a thabhairt dóibh chun a gcuid oibre a leathnú amach; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas sa chás.
Written Answers. - Cairde na Mara.
I am indeed aware of the valuable work undertaken by Cairde na Mara, the voluntary organisation set up to bring together local community interests in support of the development to aquaculture on the west coast. Since Cairde na Mara was set up in 1991 the Department has assisted the organisation with information, and technical advice and has been generally supportive of its activities.
I understand also that Údarás na Gaeltachta has contributed towards funding the salary of the organisation's manager and has helped with the provision of office accommodation. An Bord Iascaigh Mhara has also been of assistance in providing information, technical advice and general promotional literature.
I understand that Cairde na Mara intends to make proposals for grant aid support from Údarás na Gaeltachta in order to broaden its operations and is exploring the scope for assistance from the EC Leader programme and national lottery funds. I would be glad to support in principle any such funding applications, which would enable Cairde na Mara to expand its activities.
I fully support the aims and efforts of this community based organisation to promote greater understanding of the potential of aquaculture for job creation in coastal communities, and to work with local groups and other users of the marine resources in order to develop a consensus on how such development can go forward.