Irish Primary Schools Can Save Hundreds Of Euro By Installing Waterless Technology

One of the Mid West Region’s best known primary schools has moved to reduce its annual water and sewer charges by installing waterless urinal systems.

The Model School in Limerick City invested in the systems, which were installed by brwaterless solution, to offset the scale of metered water charges that were introduced for all schools and educational centres in January. The Sligo-based company says that thousands of schools around the country are unwittingly flushing money down the toilet by using conventional toilets instead of newer waterless urinals.

The savings for the Model School has led brwaterless solution to develop the country’s first Pay As You Save (PAYS) programme for national schools interested in using the Waterless No-Flush systems.

According to Ortwin Reintjes of brwaterless solution: “The country’s National Primary Schools have been severely affected by the introduction of metered charges as many are not equipped with urinals for male pupils, necessitating toilet flushes for urination. The absence of installed urinals means that it is very difficult to reduce the level of water usage and the corresponding water and sewer charges”.

Mr. Reintjes said that the Model School will benefit from significant savings by its use of the system.

He explained: “The average conventional urinal uses between 50,000 and 150,000 litres of potable water per year. With only two Waterless No-Flush units installed, the Model School, based on its male pupil population of 250, will benefit from savings on water and wastewater charges of up to 350 euro per year, based on Limerick City Council water charges of EUR2.30 per 1000 litres. Outside of the obvious water conservation and commercial benefits for the school, the urinals also lead to increased hygiene as well as a significant reduction of CO2 emissions and maintenances costs.”

The urinals resemble conventional wall-hung urinal fixtures, but do not require a water supply or flush valve for their proper functioning. Gravity helps the flow into the urinal trap and into the drain line. The urinals, which can even be made of approximately 30 per cent of soybean resin, not only save water but help save natural resources and promote sustainability as well. Due to the dryness of the fixture, bacteria growth is inhibited and odours are eliminated through the minimal use of BlueSeal.

Commenting on the background to the PAYS scheme, Mr. Reintjes said: “On request, we evaluate how many litres of water per year and how much maintenance can be saved though the use of Waterless No-Flush system. The cost of the urinals is paid from part of the savings made on the reduced water charges. Fixtures are usually paid off within two years after which the schools keep on saving on water and sewer charges, along with reduced maintenance costs.”

Commenting on the environmental benefits of the scheme, Mr. Reintjes noted: “The world is becoming increasingly aware of the need to conserve water and to diminish waste water. Dwindling natural resources, climate changes, the need to reduce and/or conserve budget money plus behavioral changes have led to an increased awareness and desire to install water conserving fixtures. We intend rolling out the PAYS program to other schools throughout the country and look forward to the opportunity to speak with Boards of Management interested in finding out more about the systems and to save money.”

For more on brwaterless solution’s PAYS (Pay As You Save) program see www.brwaterless.ie, telephone 071-9150622 or email ortwin@brwaterless.ie.

Single Payment Scheme Online Application Facility Opens For Business

The Department of Agriculture’s online application facility for the 2010 Single Payment Scheme – SPS iNet – was opened for business this week, which is six weeks earlier than the opening date under the 2009 Scheme.

Junior Agriculture Minister and Clare T.D., Tony Killeen said the facility provides for applications to be lodged by individual farmers or their nominated approved Agents.

He continued: “I am pleased to see that the momentum is being maintained as regards iNET, particularly given the attractiveness of the system to Single Payment applicants. In the course of only three years, the level of on-line applications has risen dramatically, from 7,500 in 2007 to 35,000 in 2009. This is further clear evidence of the ongoing very strong commitment of the Department to maximising new technology, to the clear benefit of farmers”..

Minister of State Killeen noted that those who submit their applications on-line are much more likely to have their applications cleared for payment more quickly, because of this aspect of the on-line system.

“Analysis of the issues which delay processing of applications shows that a very high percentage are delayed because of basic errors or omissions on the part of the applicant. However, it has been possible to construct the on-line facility with a series of compulsory fields and built-in validations, which dramatically reduces the level of these types of error, simply by refusing to allow the applicant to make the error in the first instance. Unfortunately, such an option is not available with the traditional paper application”, he added.

Minister of State Killeen confirmed that in addition to the almost 25,000 farmers who are registered with the Department to use the on-line facility, a similar number have also availed of the option to have an approved designated Agent lodge their application via the on-line system on their behalf.

The closing date for receipt of applications under the 2010 Schemes is 17 May 2010, regardless of whether applications are submitted on-line or the traditional paper application. New entrants are advised to contact any of the Department’s Offices, or to consult the Department’s website.

Meanwhile, Minister of State Killeen has welecomed the granting of on-line access to Nitrogen and Phosphorus statements for approved designated Agents. He explained: “Farmers need to be aware of their requirements under the Nitrates Regulations and this additional facility is a convenient way for approved agents to check the individual output of their clients and advise, if necessary, on any appropriate action. The Department has already sent out N&P statements to farmers farming at or above 150 kg of nitrogen per hectare per year. This information will assist farmers in their decision regarding whether they need a derogation in 2010. It is important that farmers make this decision as soon as possible as the closing date for receipt of derogation applications is Wednesday, 31st March 2010. No applications for derogations will be accepted after this date.”

The Minister of State also referred to a number of new Schemes which are being introduced in 2010 and in respect of which further announcements would be made in due course, namely:
• The Grassland Sheep Scheme;
• The Dairy Efficiency Scheme;
• The Burren Life (Farming for Conservation in the Burren) Scheme

Anyone considering availing of the on-line facility are urged to make enquiries via the website, www.agfood.ie or, alternatively, the dedicated Helpdesk at Lo-call 1890 252 118.

Applications Deadline Reminder For University Language Programme

Junior Minister Tony Killeen has reminded Clare students and teachers that the deadline for applications for the Ireland Canada University Foundation’s Irish language awards is Friday March 5th next.

According to the Clare T.D.: “This excellent programme offers students and academics a wonderful opportunity to gain valuable teaching practice, to experience living in Canada and to use their Irish in a new and exciting environment. It will help to make the academic community in Canada more aware of the Irish language and its rich heritage as one of the oldest vernacular languages in Europe. It will place the language on a par with other European languages being taught abroad.”

Funded by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, the Foundation is providing Irish-language teaching assistantships and visiting lectureships at Canadian universities that offer courses in Irish. The third-level institutions involved are Concordia University in Montreal in Quebec and St. Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. In addition, the Ireland Canada University Foundation is calling for applications for a Visiting Irish Language Professorship at the Department of Celtic Studies at the University of Toronto.

“Clare students and teachers have just over a fortnight to submit their application and make the most of this opportunity, so I strongly urge them to hurry and apply for these exchange scholarships for universities across Canada”, added Minister of State Killeen.

The Programme is funded from Ciste na Gaeilge (The Irish Language Fund), which is used to support Irish language organisations and Irish language projects. The goal of the fund is to promote the use of the Irish language.

Further information about the awards is available from www.icuf.ie or email info@icuf.ie.

2020 Strategy Welcomed By Killeen

The development of a long-term strategy for the agri-food, forestry and fisheries sectors will place the industries at the forefront of the country’s export-led economic recovery.

That is according to Junior Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Tony Killeen, T.D., who was speaking following the appointment of a Committee to lead the process and has also established a web-based public consultation process. The 2020 Strategy Committee, chaired by Dr Sean Brady, is broadly based and possesses a wide range of skills and experience. It is drawn from senior experts and participants in all aspects of the sector.

According to Minister of State Killeen: “The Committee has been tasked with drafting a short, sharp document which sets out the key strategies required for the future development of the sector. I believe that the very high calibre of the committee members will ensure that the output from this exercise will be both bold and practical and will set a clear path forward for the sector. The Committee has been asked to report by June 1st next”.

The Clare Fianna Fail T.D. noted that the agri-food, forestry and fisheries sectors were hugely important to the Irish economy and society as a source of jobs, exports and regional development. He expressed his belief that the sector could contribute significantly to Ireland’s economic recovery and provide long-term growth into the future.

Minister of State Killeen said that in order to facilitate and target consideration of key issues, a series of discussion and background papers had been prepared.

He continued: “These papers, which may be viewed on the Department website www.agriculture.gov.ie, outline the current situation and challenges facing the sector but equally importantly, pose a series of questions, the answers to which will form the core of our future strategy. Relevant stakeholders are invited to submit their views on how best to deal with some of the critical issues arising from these discussion papers”.

Details on how to make submissions are given HERE.

Killeen Welcomes Introduction Of New Bioenergy Scheme

Junior Agriculture Minister Tony Killeen, T.D. has welcomed the introduction of a new Bioenergy Scheme to grant aid the planting of willow and miscanthus crops over the period 2010 to 2012.

The Scheme was initially launched on a pilot basis in 2007 and supported the planting of 2,500 hectares by the end of 2009. The new Scheme is part of the Department's revised Rural Development Programme, which is due to be formally approved by the EU Commission in the near future.

The Clare Deputy said the new Scheme would consolidate progress made during the three years of the pilot phase in developing a biomass crops sector in Ireland.

He continued: “I welcome the announcement by my colleague Brendan Smith TD, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, that EUR1 million is being made available to support the planting of a further 1,000 hectares in 2010. The Scheme is now open for applications and interested farmers can apply for establishment grants of up to EUR1,300 per hectare to cover 50 per cent of the costs of establishing these crops".

“The legal basis for the Bioenergy Scheme is Council Regulation (EC) No 1698/2005, as amended on support for rural development by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. Eligible costs include ground preparation operations, vegetation management, planting and the purchase of planting stock”, concluded Minister of State Killeen.

The closing date for submission of applications for pre-planting approval is Wednesday 31st March 2010. Details of the Bioenergy Scheme and application forms can be obtained from Biofuels Policy Unit, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Kea-Lew Business Park, Mountrath Road, Portlaoise, Co. Laois. Telephone 057-8692231/8692240 or at www.agriculture.gov.ie.

The Big Freeze Set To Return To Ireland

All indications are that Ireland is set to see a return of bitterly cold conditions from the colder continent early next week.

Daytime temperatures are likely to be in low single figures by midweek and will struggle to rise much above freezing during daylight hours by the end of next week. Present indications are that the cold spell will last for at least five days before the Atlantic restores milder weather over the country.


Local authorities throughout Ireland will be keeping a close eye on the weather situation over the coming days and will be hoping to avoid a prolonged wintry spell that will put further pressure on salt and gritting stocks. Snow is likely at times but sharp to severe frosts can be expected.

Long Term Stability For Ireland’s Mackerel Stock

Tony Killeen, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, with special responsibility for Forestry, Fisheries and the Marine, has welcomed the conclusion of EU/Norway consultations on fisheries in Brussels yesterday which gives long term stability for the mackerel stock.

Minister Killeen expressed his relief that measures were agreed with Norway on a number of fronts which will put Ireland’s fisheries on a more stable footing for future years. “These talks which are normally complex and cover a number of management issues relating to joint fish stocks, control, setting TAC's and exchanges in fishing opportunities, were further complicated by the irresponsible fishing activities of Iceland on the mackerel stock, demands by the Faroe Islands for more mackerel quota and most importantly a dispute between Norway and the EU on access arrangements for the mackerel fishery”, he stated.

The Minister continued: “In the final analysis reaching agreement hinged on the mackerel issue and I am heartened that as the two largest shareholders of this most important stock, Norway and the EU, now have a common understanding and more importantly a comprehensive 10 year deal on mackerel arrangements. This separate agreement to the normal bi-lateral arrangements on fishing opportunities commences in 2011, and will provide much needed stability and security for our fishermen and processors into the future".

The long-term mackerel arrangement cements relative sharing ratios between the EU and Norway, sets out specific reciprocal access arrangements, deals with areas of control and other key management issues. A separate interim arrangement has been put in place for 2010.

According to Minister of State Killeen: "Economically speaking mackerel is our most important stock and it is imperative that we protect the sustainability of the fishery. This deal will have the added benefit of placing both parties in a position of unified strength before commencing future talks with the Faroe Islands and Iceland on the mackerel fishery With regard to the regular arrangements with Norway on exchanges of fishing opportunities, Ireland benefits little from the transfers of whitefish such as cod, plaice and sole in the North Sea and Arctic cod. Our main imperative therefore is to limit the transfer of pelagic stocks to Norway in exchange (especially Horse Mackerel and Blue Whiting) for Arctic cod. Ireland also contributes significantly to the transfer arrangements with the Faroe Islands for no appreciatiable benefit.”

Minister Killen said "I fought hard at the December Fisheries Council for a recognition of the unfair treatment of Ireland in the transfer process and succeeded in getting the Commission to state in writing to the Council that they would make every effort to limit the negative impact of the exchange, particularly on Ireland. I am happy to say that my efforts have borne fruit and the Commission have made good on their commitment and when considering the Faroes and Norwegian agreements together our overall contribution in Horse Mackerel will be down by nearly 50% with a small drop in our Blue Whiting transfer. There is still further work to be done on this, and I will be seeking a fundamental review of the process as part of the Common Fisheries Policy review".

"I wish to thank the Federation of Irish Fishermen for their valuable advice and support and acknowledge Sean O Donoghue, Chief Executive of the Killybegs Fishermens Organisation, who was in attendance at all the negotiations and was available at all times to advise on the impacts of the proposed arrangements on the Irish fleet. I would also like the thank Commissioner Borg and the Commission officials for honouring the commitment they gave at the December Council. The agreement signed yesterday has been the culmination of an arduous negotiation process with compromises on both sides. I am convinced that the result will put our respective fishing sectors on a sound footing, will heal the strained relationship which has existed in recent months between EU and Norway and most importantly will send a signal to other parties that the EU and Norway are singular in their determination to maintain a sustainable mackerel fishery for future generations", Minister of State Killeen concluded.

Russia Lifts Temporary Ban On Irish Pigmeat

Junior Agriculture Minister and Clare T.D., Mr. Tony Killeen has warmly welcomed the decision by the Russian Federation to reopen its market to Irish pigmeat with effect from the beginning of February.

The market has been closed since the dioxin incident in December 2008. According to Minister of State Killeen: “The temporary ban on imports of Irish pork and pork products has been lifted as from the 1 February 2010 and in this regard pork and pork products produced after that date can be exported from Ireland to the Russian Federation.”

Minister of State Killeen said the announcement was hugely significant as Russia previously was a significant market for pigmeat producers in Ireland. He noted: “The Russian pigmeat market was valued at over 12 million euro in 2007. I have no doubt that that Russian market for Irish pork products is one that has considerable potential to grow. “

Minister of State Killeen added: “The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, together with Bord Bia and the Irish Embassy in Moscow, has been working vigorously to regain access to this important market. The reopening of the market is recognition that the production of pigmeat in Ireland is subject to extremely rigorous controls and reflects the importance we place on high standards for food safety. The Department’s intention as always is to ensure access to as many international markets as possible for all Irish meats and meat products”.

Minister O’Keeffe to allow schools to reopen tomorrow

Arising from an update on the weather, the Minister for Education and Science, Batt O’Keeffe TD, has decided that the normal arrangements whereby schools decide to open or close based on local circumstances should be re-instated.

This means that schools in a position to open tomorrow [Tuesday] should do so. Minister O’Keeffe took his decision based on weather advice given to this morning’s meeting of the Government’s emergency planning group and the unexpected rise in temperatures that has occurred in parts of the country.

Killeen Seeks Simplified CAP Rules And Procedures

Junior Agriculture Minister Tony Killeen has backed calls for a simplification of the rules and procedures involved in operating the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

The Clare Fianna Fail T.D. was speaking following a meeting of the Council of Ministers in Brussels. He stated: “Proposals for simplification measures were made last May by a group consisting of Ireland and 12 other countries. In reviewing progress on these proposals, the Council agreed that while there had been useful work done, further efforts were needed. The Irish Government is now insisting that efforts to simply the rules and procedures are intensified, and I am delighted to see that there is strong agreement for this from other counties.”

Minister of State Killeen continued: “Officials will now continue the very detailed work involved in this and report to Ministers on a regular basis. In addition to this immediate work, I was also particularly pleased that a suggestion by my colleague Minister Brendan Smith that policy simplification should form a fundamental plank of our consideration of the shape of the CAP after 2013 was reflected by the Swedish chairman in concluding the debate. We need a simple EU agricultural policy - simple to justify to EU taxpayers, simple for farmers to understand and operate and simple for Member States to implement and enforce".

Among the other issues considered at the meeting of Agriculture Ministers was the CAP after 2013, and in particular the Rural Development or "Pillar 2" aspects of the common policy. Pillar 1 of the CAP consists of the Single Farm Payment and market support measures.

Commenting on the agriculture elements of Rural Development, Minister Killeen said that the Irish Government supported a move towards supporting competitiveness and sustainability in our farming systems. “Measures which promote competitiveness will perform a pivotal role in encouraging efficiency and innovation in farming for the future. These measures are critical to the future of Irish and European farming and should be maintained and enhanced”, he concluded.

Killeen Secures Fair Deal On Quotas For Irish Fishermen

Mr Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food has welcomed the final package of measures agreed at the EU Fisheries Council in Brussels.

Emerging from almost 36 hours of intensive negotiations at the annual ‘Fish Quotas’ meeting of the EU Council of Ministers, Minister Killeen expressed satisfaction that Ireland had, in the end, secured a package that provides a balanced and fair outcome for Irish fishermen. The preparatory meeting on Sunday night between the Federation of Irish Fishermen (FIF) and other industry representatives was enormously beneficial in setting Ireland’s priorities and Minister Killeen ensured regular meetings and contacts over the period of the negotiations to keep industry informed and to gain an understanding of the impacts of proposals on Ireland’s industry as they emerged.

An ongoing disagreement between the EU and Norway in respect of mackerel fishing overshadowed this year’s meeting and made the job of setting quotas for EU fishermen even more difficult than normal. Minister Killeen had to fight all the way to the end of the two day marathon to ensure that the lack of agreement between the EU and Norway did not adversely impact on the mackerel fleet.

Minister Killeen said: “Without an EU/ Norway agreement there was a real danger that the Irish mackerel fleet would be severely limited in terms of the amount of the mackerel quota it would be permitted to fish. I secured a provisional quota of 65% of the 2009 for them which is available for fishing from the start of the year. I also secured assurances from the Council that any new agreement will be fairer in the benefits and costs it delivered for all Member States”.

In the past Ireland contributed more in the transfer of fishing quotas to Norway than it gained from access to fish stock in Norwegian waters. On the whitefish stocks Minister Killeen fought the now annual action to ensure that the commitment of Ireland’s hard pressed fishermen – the Hague Agreement – was fully honoured by his European counterparts. This was particularly important this year as major reductions in the total allowed catch (TAC) of a number of key stocks were proposed by the EU Commission. Stocks of cod, haddock and prawns – amongst the most important to the whitefish fleet – were all in line for big reductions.
 
Minister Killeen explained: “In the case of prawns, I accepted the need for change to ensure the long term sustainability of this important stock but successfully gathered support amongst my colleagues in the council for a plan, proposed by the FIF that will see a seasonal closure off the south west coast in the summer months when it is most vulnerable to over-fishing. On the basis of this plan I was able to substantially reduce the TAC cut of 50% recommended by International Council for Exploration of the Sea (ICES) to 9%. This is the most important stock for our whitefish fleet and I am satisfied that I have delivered both necessary conservation measures where these are required and a realistic quota for the prawn stocks where the science shows that the stock is healthy.”

The Minister also secured commitments for a review and early amendment of the restrictions on whitefish fishing off Donegal introduced at last December’s fisheries council. In addition a proposed cut of 54% for the haddock TAC was cut to a more reasonable 25%. Minister Killeen commented: “Whilst accepting a reduction in the total catch of haddock off Ireland’s north west coast on scientific grounds I effectively argued for a more balanced approach that will see the scale of reductions lessened, a new long term management plan for the haddock stock agreed and a full review during early 2010 of the harsh restrictions put in place last year with the aim of making changes as early as possible in 2010.”

The Commission also proposed a 25% cut in the very important Celtic Sea cod TAC. However, Minister Killeen successfully argued that Ireland requires new and better data on the state of this stock which fishermen argue is in better shape than other cod stocks around the coast. He added: “At council I secure a rollover of the 2009 TAC to reflect recent catches. We need fishermen and scientists to work together in partnership so that we have improved knowledge that will support any necessary actions in order that this stock does not need a harsh recovery plan like we have in the Irish Sea and off Donegal”.

Finally, Minister Killeen paid tribute to the work of Irish fishermen that lead to the recovery of the important Celtic Sea herring stock. Fishermen in the south west working together with the marine Institute scientists developed a long term plan for this stock.

“This is effectively an Irish stock as we have the bulk of the quota and it was facing collapse two years ago. Fishermen had the courage to take the very difficult decisions required to rebuild the stock and I am delighted such positive results with a TAC increase of 71%. This is a fine example of how working together and taking strong action can pay dividends”, concluded Minister of State Killeen.

Farmers Receive Upland Sheep Scheme Payments

Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, has confirmed that special payments to eligible farmers under the new Upland Sheep Payment Scheme have commenced.

Minister Killeen confirmed that he expected that Upland Sheep Payment Scheme payments worth in the region of 5 million euro would be made by the end of the month with the remaining 2 million euro being paid in early 2010. A further 54 million euro will be made available over the next three years in unused CAP funds to support incomes in the sheep sector.

The Clare T.D. said: “The Uplands Sheep Payment comprises unused funds from the Single Payment National Reserve. By creating this payment, the Government has recognised the difficulties and costs, including compliance costs, facing the sheep sector.”

“In addition to the 7 million euro payments being made over the coming weeks, the Department has allocated an additional 8 million euro for sheep fencing and mobile handling facilities to assist sheep farmers in reducing labour input, as part of a new targeted on-farm investment scheme”, added Minister of State Killeen.

Meanwhile, the Minister of State also confirmed that payments under the Single Payment Scheme and Disadvantaged Areas Scheme are continuing to issue, as individual cases are cleared for payment.

Minister of State Killeen added: “To date, the combined value of the payments that have issued under these two Schemes is in excess of EUR1.462 billion. Payments due to the small number of participating farmers under the Protein Aid Scheme, worth in excess of EUR220,000, have also begun issuing”.

Killeen Demands A Fair Deal For Irish Fishermen

Tony Killeen TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, today met EU Fisheries Commissioner Joe Berg to reinforce his efforts to secure a fair deal for Irish fishermen in EU /Norway negotiations being held in Brussels this week.

Minister of State Killeen sought the meeting after it emerged that developments at the formal EU / Norway negotiations were likely to seriously impact on Ireland.

Transfers to Norway, which would involve quota reductions for Ireland of 2,500 tonnes of horse mackerel and 2,000 tonnes of mackerel, are under examination at the negotiations. The transfer of EU stocks of mackerel and horse mackerel is being pushed by a group of Member States including Spain and Portugal. These Member States benefit from access to Artic cod stocks in Norwegian waters which must be paid for with transfers of EU fish quotas to Norway.

Speaking following today’s meeting, Minister of State Killeen stated: “As soon as it became clear to me that the deal on the table in the EU / Norway negotiations would involve a substantial loss of fish quotas for Irish fishermen and fish factories I immediately sought an urgent meeting. I set down for Commissioner Borg the impacts of the planned deal on those Irish fishermen and fish factories who are dependent on mackerel and horse mackerel for their livelihoods.”

He continued: “These stocks are the mainstay of the Donegal pelagic fishing fleet and are also important for the south west fishing fleet and for fish factories on the western seaboard. I explained that the deal on the table would mean that Irish fishermen would be paying in lost fishing quotas for the extra cod quotas for a range of Member States including Spain and Portugal. I pointed out that a deal agreed on this basis would be completely unacceptable to Ireland and would not be justified.”

Commissioner Borg agreed to make urgent contact with his negotiators in Bergen and to explain the points raised. He undertook to request them to consider other options to pay for the artic cod transferred to the EU with a view to seeking a more equitable arrangement for Ireland.

The EU/ Norway fisheries negotiations are commencing a final session in Bergen, Norway today (7th December), and are likely to conclude this week.

Killeen Takes Firm Stance At EU Fisheries Council

Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State in the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, today attended the EU Fisheries Council where he set down a strong marker to make clear that the important mackerel fishery is protected and that Ireland’s share of the fishery is maintained.

Each year EU and Norway negotiate access to fish stocks in each other’s waters and changing stock patters mean there is increasing pressure for Norway’s access to mackerel to be increased. There is growing concern that the EU will agree to increase Norway’s share of the stock, which would reduce Ireland’s quota for 2010 and future years.

According to Minister of State Killeen: “The mackerel fishery is very important to Ireland and in 2009 we had a quota of 62,000 tonnes worth an estimated €65 million at the quayside. Norway has demanded an increased share of the overall EU TAC, which Ireland is totally opposing and is also seeking to be allowed to fish that quota in EU waters.”

He continued: “I made clear to fellow Ministers and to Commissioner Borg the importance of the mackerel fishery for Ireland and that we needed to work together to prevent any reduction in the EU’s share of the mackerel quota. I am prepared to discuss mutually acceptable arrangements that would increase the access for Norwegian vessels in return for a long term agreement on the share out between EU and Norway that protected the interests of Irish fishermen.”

The Fisheries Council also discussed new conservation measures on mesh sizes and closed areas.

Minister of State Killeen noted that these measures were important to deliver on Ireland’s overall objective of conserving fish stocks and promoting sustainable fishing practices. EU Fisheries Ministers agreed to continue the existing measures for a further 18 months to allow for more detailed discussions with fishermen.

Minister Killeen added: “I consider that we need to strengthen the current conservation rules but I want to ensure that the new measures which are very technical and complex allow for economic fisheries that protect the livelihood of fishermen. I was disappointed that the Council’s failure to reach agreement has resulted in the continuation of measures applied last December for the waters off Donegal. While I secured some limited changes, Council was not prepared to make substantive changes to the existing arrangements for Ireland and the UK in this interim period”.

Killeen Welcomes Transfer Of Foreshore Licensing Functions

Fisheries Minister and Clare T.D. Tony Killeen has welcomed the publication of the Foreshore and Dumping at Sea (Amendment) Bill 2009, which will give effect to the transfer of all Foreshore licensing functions not associated with aquaculture and sea-fishing, from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

The State’s Foreshore stretches from the High Water Mark seawards for 12 nautical miles and foreshore consents are issued under the Foreshore Acts 1933-2005.

Minister of State Killeen said he expected that the legislation would commence its passage through the Oireachtas later this month.

He added: “Following enactment of this legislation, responsibility for Foreshore consents in respect of commercial projects on the Foreshore including, marinas, harbour and port developments and all energy related developments will become the responsibility of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.”

Minister of State Killeen noted that the Bill was major step towards the development of a modern planning and development framework for the State’s Foreshore.

“This Bill will align licensing of major commercial offshore development projects with the core functions of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, which already has responsibility for planning issues”, he concluded.

Killeen Welcomes New Long Term Strategy For Agri-Food Sector

Tony Killeen, Fianna Fail TD for Clare, and Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, has confirmed that submissions on a long term strategy for the development of the agri-food and fishing sector will be invited by the end of November.

The new strategy for the period up to 2020 is currently being developed and is expected to be completed around the middle of 2010. The Department and five State Agencies - Bord Bia, Teagasc, Enterprise Ireland, BIM and the Marine Institute - are jointly involved in the preparation of a series of papers on the main sectors, which will give an informed basis to a web-based public consultation process and request for submissions.

According to Minister of State Killeen: “It is clear that a new direction is needed for the Irish agri-food sector. A number of the chief executives of major food companies share the view that there is a need for a long-term strategic plan for the future of the industry, for which there is so much potential, especially given the projections for population growth over the next few decades.”

He continued: “The Department is keen to seen all those with a stake in the Irish agri-food sector participating actively in the process, which I hope will stimulate debate and provide some answers. There are no easy answers, but we must do everything possible to maximise the potential of the sector.”

“The strategy will represent a new departure and will set out what is needed to reposition Irish farming and food for growth in the years ahead”, the Minister of State concluded.

Department Of Health Confirms Tenth Swine Flu Related Death

A woman in the south has become the tenth person to die from human swine flu in the Republic of Ireland.

The Department of Health and the HSE confirmed this evening that the woman died from the H1N1 virus reportS RTE. The woman had an underlying health condition, but the department have not released any further details relating to her death.

Minister for Health Mary Harney has offered her sympathy to the family and friends of the woman.

Major EU And International Fisheries Negotiations Take Place In Clonakilty

Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food welcomed the commencement of major international coastal states fisheries talks at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food offices in Clonakilty today.

Discussions, which will continue until Friday, will aim to agree the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) of mackerel for 2010. The TAC for 2009 amounted to over 600,000 tonnes. The meeting involves the European Commission, Swedish Presidency of the European Council, a delegation of 12 from Norway and the Faroe Islands, and a range of interested EU Member States including Denmark, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Sweden, France, Poland, Germany and Ireland. The meeting will determine arrangements between the European Union, Norway and the Faroe Islands for the management of the almost three million tonne mackerel stock in the North East Atlantic.

Minister of State Killeen said he was pleased that the Clonakilty offices of the Department were hosting the negotiations, which is the first time such important international fisheries negotiations have been hosted in Ireland.

“This meeting will set not just the international TAC for 2010 but will critically also agree the access and other arrangements for the fishery. Mackerel is very important for the Irish fishing sector and this year the value of the catch for Irish fishermen is expected to be over EUR60 million”, stated Minister of State Killeen. He added: “The fishery is in addition worth a similar amount to our seafood processing industry in Donegal and along the western seaboard and provides significant seasonal employment in Donegal, Galway, Kerry and Cork. I wish all concerned best wishes for success at these negotiations so that we can be assured of good management and a sustainable fishery for 2010.”

Killeen Welcomes Major New Package On EU Fisheries Control

Mr Tony Killeen TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food today agreed a comprehensive fisheries control and inspection framework at the Fisheries Council.

Speaking in Luxembourg, Minister of State Killeen said: “My priority at Council was to secure measures that will give our fishermen confidence that there is real intent and the necessary tools in place that will address illegal fishing in the waters around our coast. These measures will help to deliver the level playing field on control that is necessary to rebuild fish stocks and protect the livelihood of our coastal communities which are fully dependent for their future on healthy fish stocks fished sustainable by all operators in our waters”.

Discussions on the new measures will overhaul the existing regime for fisheries control continued late into the night. The package of measures was finally agreed following intensive negotiations by Minister of State Killeen to ensure that Ireland's priorities and concerns were fully taken on board.

Minister of State Killeen continued: “I welcome these new measures which I believe are not a threat to Irish fishermen who have already moved substantially to a culture of compliance. As fisheries are a common resource it is vital that all operators from all EU fleets respect the rules. We must rebuild our fish stocks by implementing conservation measures and tackling illegal fishing by fleets in our waters which is the major cause of the decline in our fish stocks and quotas. With this package, we have now a better opportunity to stop the cycle of decline and secure a sustainable profitable future for our industry”.

The urgent need for a new control regime in European fisheries was clearly set down in a Court of Auditors report on data collection and control and enforcement under the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). The Court concluded that weaknesses in fisheries controls jeopardised the proper functioning of a fisheries management policy based on catch limitations. The objective of the new control regime is to address in a comprehensive way the shortcomings identified and modernise the delivery.

The new Regulation introduces a new and common approach to control, from net to plate. It will cover every stage in the process that sees fish caught, landed, brought to market and sold. Harmonised standards for inspection activities and procedures will help deliver uniform implementation. This new approach will make use of modern technologies and risk analysis. It will introduce systematic and automated cross checking of data collected at the catch, landing and sale stages, to make it easier to spot attempts to break the rules. These measures will be backed up by a comprehensive traceability system, so that all fish and fisheries products, whether imported or produced in the EU, can be tracked throughout the market chain.

Minister of State Killeen said: “I am satisfied that here early this morning we have delivered a strong and effective new regime that will support the accurate recording of fish catches and detect and help prevent infringement of conservation rules. For the first time the EU has moved closer to harmonised sanctions with the introduction of a 'penalty points system' to address persistent offenders against the rules. Those offenders will have their fishing licence suspended and eventually permanently withdrawn.”

“ I am satisfied that we have agreed a package of measures that will promote a level playing field across the EU and will foster a culture of compliance”, the Fianna Fail T.D. for Clare concluded.

Department Raises Difficulties In Farming Sector With Banks

Minister of State and Fianna Fail T.D. for Clare, Tony Killeen has confirmed that the Department of Agriculture met with Irish banks at the weekend to encourage Irish banks to extend normal working capital facilities to farmers.

The meeting between Minister Killeen’s Department, the major banks and the Irish Banking Federation focused on the ongoing credit difficulties being experienced in the farming sector. According to Minister of State Killeen: “The banks recognise the current short-term difficulties faced by farmers and have made it clear that they are open for business. The are, however, encouraging farmers to initiate contact at an early juncture in instances where difficulties with regards to short term financing and sourcing working capital are envisaged.”

He emphasised the difficulties associated with poor weather conditions as well as low prices, particularly in the dairy sector, and said that “farmers require access to higher levels of short and medium term credit facilities to assist in weathering the current storm”.

The Junior Agriculture Minister added: “The Department of Agriculture will persist with its efforts to impress upon and facilitate banks in providing more assistance to their farmer clients at this very difficult time, particularly having regard to low product prices this year. The ongoing discussions with the IBF and the banks with regard to agri-sector issues including credit to farmers represents a significant component of the ongoing Government objective to free up lending on a commercial basis into the economy as a whole.”

It is anticipated that the ongoing discussions between the Department of Agriculture, the IBF and the banks will also compliment the work of the Credit Supply Clearing Group, which was established to identify credit bottlenecks to viable businesses and to seek to identify credit supply solutions. This group includes representatives from the main banks, business interests, including the farming sector, and state agencies.