An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern T.D., along with Minister Noel Dempsey T.D. and Minister of State John Browne T.D., launched the Irish Government’s new National Seafood Strategy at a press conference on 28 January.
The Strategy, entitled “Steering a New Course, Strategy for a Restructured, Sustainable and Profitable Irish Seafood Industry 2007-2013”, sets out a visionary road map towards achieving an Irish seafood sector that is sustainable, profitable, and most of all, truly competitive and market-focused.
€334 million of public funds will be made available to match private sector funding of €263 million to create a total investment package of €597 million for the seafood sector.
The strategy is based on a comprehensive report carried out by a review group made up of three eminent experts – Dr. Noel Cawley, Mr Ruan O’Bric and Mr. Joey Murrin, appointed in June 2006. Their report was independently drawn up in consultation with all the key interests and stakeholders in the sector.
The report, which took on board the views of individual fishermen, fish farmers, processors, marketers and other stakeholders, focuses on ten core themes and outlines specific actions to be taken in order to achieve a sustainable seafood industry.
“The plan we are launching today has the potential to revolutionise the seafood industry in Ireland within six years. We can ensure that the industry generates over €1 billion for the economy and remains a major source of jobs, particularly in coastal communities. We are rapidly approaching a tipping point where fish stocks are dwindling to dangerously low levels. All must be committed to building a sustainable industry into the future,” said Minister Dempsey.
“I believe that by 2013 we can have a seafood industry that is sustainable, more profitable, and most of all, truly competitive and market-focused.” he added.
