Máirín Quill
Ceist:30 Miss Quill asked the Minister for the Marine when and where the proposed major marine resource centre will be established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3998/95]
Written Answers. - Marine Resource Centre.
I assume the Deputy is referring to the commitment in the programme for Government, A Government of Renewal, to seek EU support for a major marina resource centre to co-ordinate resources protection, exploration and research.
The Marine Institute has statutory responsibility for co-ordinating and overseeing the national marine research effort. I am pleased to advise the Deputy that the institute will oversee and implement a substantial investment programme for marine research and technological development under the Operational Programme for Fisheries 1994-99. EU Structural Funds worth £6 million, will contribute to the £8 million spending programme on marine research over the period. The investment will be directed towards project based research to underpin development of the fisheries, aquaculture and marine technology sectors. There will also be investment to enhance the national research vessel capability and to upgrade marine laboratory infrastructure.