Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have just a few questions. One of the complaints most of the organisations have about the BAR schemes is that the application process to draw down funding is too difficult. It is something we need to look at.

I raised the matter of the seafood sector at last week's committee meeting, and the drawing down of European funding to support it, in the context of the present difficulty that sector has with Brexit and climate issues. I looked for figures for 2019 and 2020, when we had Covid and it was not possible for the sector to produce those kinds of figures. I ask the officials to look at some of these schemes again and not make it as difficult for those in the sector. They are in difficulty. Their raw material and goods are sourced from Britain and they are finding it very difficult at present. They need whatever support they can get. Will the officials look at that scheme again to see what can be done to support them?