Vol. 526 No. 6
137 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the grant aid and other supports available from his Department or any agency under the aegis of his Department toward the development of fish processing and the development of prepared meals based on fish; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27516/00]
An integrated strategy to enhance the profitability and performance of the seafood processing sector is being finalised, informed by a comprehensive report into future directions for Irish seafood processing.
Following comprehensive consultation with the seafood processing sector the consultancy report sets out strategies to address the key challenges facing the sector and to develop the industry over the short to medium term.
The overall strategy will inform the investment support measures for the sector under the NDP. Key challenges include strategies for improving the competitive position of Irish seafood products on international markets, the scale of the industry value added and R&D priorities, the consistency of raw material supply and capacity utilisation within the sector.
