Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 803: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if she has contacted Mr. Joe Borg, EU Commissioner, in relation to new schemes which would benefit in-shore fishing projects in view of the drift and draft net ban in 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1880/08]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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I have had no contact with Commissioner Borg on this matter as this is primarily a matter for the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. The Community Support Scheme, recommended by the Report of the Independent Group, has been drafted to 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 the LEADER companies under the supervision of the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources in conjunction with the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (DCRGA). Details of the scheme will be announced shortly. Available funds will be allocated 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, also informed the most effective distribution of funds.

The coastal communities concerned will also benefit from schemes for the sustainable development of fisheries and aquaculture, which are being put in place in the line with the recommendations of the Cawley Report — Steering A New Course. These schemes are administered by Bord Iascaigh Mhara and Údarás na Gaeltachta.