Thomas Pringle (Donegal South West, Independent)
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Fine. As other speakers have said, however, the 10% requirement for co-funding will still create huge problems for local authorities. This is an issue that needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency within the Department because local authorities will simply not have that amount of co-funding. There is also the question of lead-in costs for design work, consents and the like. Unless this has also been lifted, the local authorities will have to carry that cost before they can apply for funding to the Department. I would like further explanation in that regard.

The allocation of funding towards fishing gear and lobster pots is totally inadequate, and I am sure other speakers will cover this issue during the questions. I know some fishermen have lost nets and fishing gear but there is no sign of any scheme to help them replace that gear. Is this an issue to which the Department will give consideration? In recent months, many fishermen have been unable to get out to earn a living. Some sort of the scheme is required as a matter of urgency to compensate fishermen for loss of earnings, given the adverse weather conditions we have had in recent months.

Will the Department give any consideration to such a scheme? I expect the answer will be that people in that situation are looked after by the social welfare system. The problem, however, is that significant numbers of fishermen are self-employed and thus unable to access social welfare. Will the officials comment on that?