Tom Sheahan (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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Question 676: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the action taken in relation to the €5 million promised to be put in place to provide 50% grant aid towards diversification for the communities most affected by the drift netting ban; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30909/07]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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The €5 million Community Support Scheme, recommended by the Report of the Independent Group, will focus primarily on those communities where commercial salmon fishing has been a well-established activity and where its withdrawal demonstrably impacts on the economic and social fabric, for example, Gaeltacht areas.

The scheme is to be administered by my Department in conjunction with the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (DCRGA). Details of the scheme are being finalised with a view to allocating the available funds to those affected fishery districts, proportionate to the impact of the cessation of the mixed-stock fishery. Consultations with the LEADER companies, conducted through DCRGA, will inform the most effective distribution of funds.

As soon as this exercise is completed, details of the scheme will be finalised and published through the LEADER companies.