Joanna Tuffy (Dublin Mid West, Labour)
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Question 1635: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding the implementation of the recommendation in the Report of the Seafood Industry Strategy Review Group that a budget of €55 million be allocated for marketing over the seven year period amounting on an annual basis to €7.8 million; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30879/08]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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The Strategy for a Restructured, Sustainable and Profitable Irish Seafood Industry 2007-13 (The Cawley Report) is the blueprint for the development of the seafood sector going forward.

The recommendations and indicated funding contained in the report are underpinned by the National Development Plan (NDP) 2007-2013, which provides for their roll out over the timeframe of the plan. Annual funding allocations will be determined by the Estimates and priorities determined within allocated budgets.

The Deputy will be aware that I established the Irish Seafood Market Initiative to identify and maximise the opportunities for the domestic seafood supply to the Irish Market, and to develop a shared understanding of the key market issues impacting on the sector.

This forum under the Chairmanship of Jason Whooley, Chief Executive, BIM comprises a broad spectrum of stakeholders. I am happy to inform you that the group had its inaugural meeting on the 23rd July.