Alan Shatter
Ceist:43 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will consider grant aiding new vessels in accordance with the recommendations of the fishing vessel safety review group. [3885/98]
Written Answers. - Grant Payments.
In addition to the ongoing programme to support the modernisation of existing vessels, I announced last week my proposals for a package of new measures to develop the whitefish fleet. These proposals include a plan for a capital grant aid scheme for new whitefish vessels. I have also secured in the Finance Bill special tax based reliefs to encourage capital into the whitefish fleet. These proposals which are designed to be consistent with State aid parameters will be submitted to the EU Commission in the coming weeks. I am confident that the proposed reliefs and capital grant programme will enable the industry to set about the challenge of renewal with the aim of securing the safety, competitiveness and long-term future of the fleet.