Vol. 509 No. 5
72 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources his views on whether significant problems confront herring fishermen; and the proposals, if any, he has in this regard, in particular in relation to marketing and price support. [20662/99]
As I have outlined to Deputy Sheehan in an earlier reply today, the position is that the global market situation for herring is continuing to be weak. The difficulty is due mainly to the collapse of the Russian economy.
My Department and BIM are working closely with the Irish fish processors and exporters to maximise all possible market openings for Irish herring, notably in eastern Europe. In this regard, of particular advantage has been the recent appointment of a Pelagic Market Co-ordinator who is now working with the industry on the ground to further develop market co-ordination and co-operative strategies for the herring industry.
The task force on the management and marketing of herring recommended a series of measures, including the appointment of the Pelagic Market Co-ordinator, to maintain and enhance the Irish herring exports in the very difficult global environment. All of these recommendations have already been implemented or are in progress including quality development programmes for the fleet and herring processors, an industry marketing group, market research and new product development. These initiatives will help the industry through the present difficult market situation and position it well for development in future.
