Vol. 488 No. 4
56 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will give details of the recently announced grant scheme for the upgrading of the white fish fleet; the percentage of grant given; the other conditions, if any, which apply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6403/98]
I have recently announced proposals for a package of new measures to develop the white fish fleet. These proposals include a plan for a capital grant aid scheme for new white fish vessels. Specific details of the terms of the scheme are under consideration. I have also secured in the recent Finance Bill special tax based reliefs to encourage capital into the white fish fleet.
These proposals which are designed to be consistent with State aid parameters will be submitted to the EU Commission in the near future. 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. I expect to be in a position to announce details of the new grant scheme, which I am proposing, at an early date.
