Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 4 Nov 1998

Vol. 496 No. 1

Priority Questions. - Vessel Safety Equipment Scheme.

Michael Bell

Ceist:

37 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the number of applications for financial assistance under the terms of the proposed £40 million package for the white fish fleet announced by him in June 1998; the number of new and second-hand vessels subvented; the level of grant provided for the purchase of safety equipment; the level of EU funding under the Fisheries Operational Programme 1994-9 for this grant aid package; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22045/98]

Dr. Woods

I am pleased to update the House on progress of the programme for the renewal of the white fish fleet. Some 138 applications have been received to date under the key elements of the renewal scheme. I will announce successful applications for grant-aid for new vessels shortly and I will announce the successful applications for grant-aid for modern second-hand vessels by the end of the month and for vessel modernisations before the end of the year.

The vessel safety equipment scheme provides for grant-aid of 50 per cent for the purchase and fitting of essential safety gear. I have announced one round of approvals to date and I will announce a further round shortly. I consider this vessel safety equipment scheme of vital importance. The aim of this scheme is to encourage vessel owners to fit out vessels with specific on-board safety equipment. Improved safety equipment on board vessels can play a vital part in the ongoing battle to protect life at sea. The tragedies at sea this week bring home to us all the perilous working conditions that fishermen endure. I again extend my sympathy to the families of all those involved in this week's tragedies. The closing date for applications for safety grants is the last day of each month and I will ensure decisions are taken quickly. I strongly urge fishermen to avail of this unique scheme.

The whitefish fleet renewal programme is supported by EU grant aid of more than £6 million under the Fisheries Operational Programme 1994-9. Support for the introduction of modern second-hand vessels is subvented by national funding alone.

I secured in the 1998 Finance Act a significant package of tax reliefs to support and encourage investment in new and second-hand vessels and for modernisation of existing vessels. There has been considerable interest in the tax measures as well, complementing closely the grant aid schemes.

I am pleased, with Government colleagues, at the high level of interest in the programme for renewal of the whitefish fleet. It underlines the appetite and need for reinvestment in the fleet right around the coast and confirms that the incentives on offer are proving attractive to a wide range of fishermen. I am determined to ensure the scheme fully delivers on the Government's objectives to revitalise the whitefish fleet and to support safety, jobs and competitiveness in the sector to the benefit of our coastal communities.

Mr. Bell

I join the Minister in extending my sympathy to the families of the bereaved; unfortunately this is becoming commonplace these days. I am pleased at the provision of subventions for safety measures on board ship. The main thrust of the question was to establish not only the number of applicants but the financial aspect of the scheme. Will the Minister agree that more than 50 per cent of the total number of applicants will be from Donegal and 50 per cent of the total funding will be used in Donegal? Given that the package is substantially over subscribed, will he review it after the two initial announcements have been made at the end of the month?

Dr. Woods

There has been a significant response to the scheme, particularly from County Donegal. Greencastle had the highest number of applications followed by Castletownbere and other ports. This scheme is restricted to the whitefish fleet operators. Donegal is famous for its pelagic fleet and the very large vessels. I was particularly happy with the level of interest in the new vessels scheme. The level of interest exceeded expectations as Deputy Bell outlined. BIM has evaluated all the applications received and this week has sent me a final report on the outcome of the valuation process. That report is being examined in my Department and will come before me shortly. I am determined to ensure the scheme fully delivers on the Government's object to revitalise the whitefish fleet. When I have fully examined BIM's report and its implications I will be in a position to inform the House of any further measures required to deliver on the revitalisation of the whitefish fleet.