Additional Measures To Help NI Fishing

Additional support is being supplied to the fishing industry in Northern Ireland following the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy.

The announcement came as Agriculture Minister Michelle O'Neill spoke after a meeting of the Executive.

"Some weeks ago I announced a range of measures worth some £740,000 to help the fishing industry adapt to the new challenges that will flow from the reformed Common Fisheries Policy," she said.

Outlining the new measures, the Minister said: "Firstly, I want to address immediate needs and help the industry with the cash problems that are inhibiting some vessels from getting to sea. This will be based on a proportion of harbour dues paid and will be available to all active fishing vessels under 27m in length. My Department will be making payments during the summer and will be in contact with the Fish Producer Organisations in the coming days to tell them how the scheme will work. It is estimated that this scheme will be worth in the region of £500,000.

"Secondly, I want to address the access to finance issue which is often quoted by fishing industry representatives as one of the reasons why fishing businesses have not taken up grant opportunities. My Department will examine the need for intervention in the form of a loan fund.

"Finally, I will be bringing forward a further plan in the autumn to address the recommendations involving the fishing industry that are contained in the Agri-Food Strategy Board’s report Going for Growth. I want to insure that our fishing industry maximises its potential so that it will continue to play an important role in the economic life of the coastal communities in which it is based."

(IT/CD)