Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am aware that this matter is being dealt with by the SFPA, which the Deputy referred to. This issue has been the subject of engagement through the consultation committee between the SFPA and the local industry that the Deputy mentioned.

I was not aware this matter would be raised. I appreciate it is an important matter. While the SFPA is an independent body of Government and, obviously, of me, I will certainly ask for a report on the matter because I am aware of the significant asset that is Killybegs and the scale of technology and expertise that is there. It is important not only to the local Donegal economy but also to our maritime sector. I will ask my officials and my Department will raise this matter and ask for an update on it. The SFPA is independent but, nonetheless, it is a matter that I will look to understand more.

On the point the Deputy made regarding the fact that any aid received by a vessel owner under the Brexit temporary fleet tie-up scheme is deducted from the owner's decommissioning payment, I understand that this is a requirement of the state aid approval process for this scheme.

It is a requirement that has been made by the Commission to ensure that the scheme is consistent with state aid policy.