The Irish fishing industry got a £30 million boost today with the announcement of a new investment programme intended to maximise the return from Ireland’s resources.
Launching the new programme, the Minister for the Marine, Mr Fahey, said that it was aimed at promoting innovation and sustainability in the fishing sector.
The move, which will be administered by Bord Iascaigh Mhara, will also encourage the industry to developmore sustainable harvesting, increased stock awareness, and introduction of e-trading initiatives.
"The strategic objective is to increase the incomes of people in coastal communities by ensuring that the value of our seafood is increased by aiming for optimum quality an market timing and conditions," said Mr Fahey.
There will also be a major focus on inshore fisheries, catering for angling tourism and food production, a sector that employs over half of all in the industry, he said.
The initiative is the first part of a £171 million investment in fishing over six years that is planned by the Government.