‘My Department’s present EMFF Operational Programme for the seafood sector is nearing its end and will be wound up in 2021,’ said Minister Michael Creed, speaking at the launch of the public consultation.
‘It has been a success in channeling €240 million into vital investments to promote the sustainable growth of our seafood sector and will leave a lasting legacy of enhanced sustainability, profitability, competitiveness and enhanced value.’
He commented that Ireland is now facing a new programme period starting in 2021 and while many of the challenges and opportunities facing our seafood sector will continue to be relevant for the future programme, there will also undoubtedly be some new and changed investment priorities.
‘Adapting our seafood sector to the changed landscape that Brexit will bring will be a vital consideration,’ he said.
‘Climate change is a top priority for Government and we must consider what the new Programme will contribute to Ireland’s response. Preservation of marine biodiversity and Clean Oceans and ensuring the sustainability of our fish stocks will continue to be top priorities.‘
He added that it is vital to continue to enhance the competitiveness, value and productivity of the sector through innovation, training, and targeted capital investment.’
‘In this initial public consultation, I am asking our stakeholders to share their views on how we should address these and other relevant issues in our new programme, in what ways we should intervene, and how should we prioritise and get the right balance in distributing the available funds,’ Michael Creed said.
The open call for submissions will run until 5pm on Friday 7th February 2020.
