Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Lombard. In the coming days I will be moving to consult with all stakeholders in the sector on the format of and terms of reference relating to the task force. The key objective is to have a full assessment of the impact on those who know best in terms of what the outcome of Brexit means for the sector and to ensure that this informs the way we move forward in terms of both supporting them in the time ahead and the national response. The Government stands ready in terms of the necessity to invest in our fishing sector in the time ahead. The Brexit adjustment reserve is available to provide support in respect of the impact of Brexit across our wider economy, including the fishing sector. I have no doubt, however, that there will be significant additional national funds, particularly for fishing in terms of the impact on that sector. That will be very much informed by the views of those who are affected and who know best how that can be utilised to support the sector in the future.

On the Brexit adjustment reserve in general and the agrifood and marine sector, there will be engagement with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform and the Minister for Finance on how it is distributed across the economy. There is a really clear commitment and understanding at Government level on standing ready to support the fisheries sector in the time ahead. That will be very much in addition to what is available in the Brexit adjustment reserve.