Tony Killeen TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food today opened the Irish Skipper - Inshore Fisheries Expo in Galway.
The annual event, which specialises in the inshore fisheries sector, showcases products and services for the fishing sector and the latest technologies.
Speaking today, Minister Killeen said: “The great success of the IRISH SKIPPER EXPO year on year and the large attendance here today, demonstrates the size and vibrancy of the inshore sector and its importance around the coast. The skippers and crew of vessels involved in fishing, the processors and marketing companies and all of the shore based support network such as net makers and chandlers make a vital contribution to the economic activity of our coastal communities. The activity is not just in the large harbours but in every one of the 800 small harbours and landing piers. Expo is especially important in giving fishermen an opportunity to meet and discuss their industry and its future.”
At the exhibition, Minister Killeen launched four schemes to support safety at sea, inshore fisheries management, environmental management of fisheries and LEADER type support for coastal communities dependant on fishing. The schemes which are part funded by the EU will provide €1.82 million of grant aid in support of an investment of €4.5 million in 2010 to assist industry.
Minister Killeen added: “I am pleased to launch new schemes to support the fishing industry, which are being delivered by BIM and are focused in particular on the inshore sector. These supports will particularly focus on aspects of inshore fisheries management and environmental management systems, providing the tools with which industry can not only improve their operations but also increase the value of their produce. BIM will also be launching a LEADER type scheme involving coastal areas dependant on fishing.”
Minister Killeen also launched a new Stock Book for Inshore stocks. The Stock Book will provide information on all inshore stocks around Ireland and has been prepared and published jointly by the Marine Institute and BIM.
