Seán Connick (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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Question 66: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the new EU strategy for the development of the aquaculture sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20329/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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The EU Commission published in April 2009 the document "Building a Sustainable Future for Aquaculture" in a Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament and Council. The strategy was published following consultations with stakeholders including the representative organisation for aquaculture in Ireland, IFA Aquaculture.

EU Commissioner Borg presented the new EU Strategy for development of the aquaculture sector at the April EU Fisheries Council. At the Council I noted that aquaculture is the fastest growing food production in the world and that global production now exceeds 50m tonnes per year. I pointed out that the Irish Aquaculture industry is well placed to capitalise on the growth in demand for aquaculture products in Europe. I wholeheartedly welcomed this comprehensive and wide ranging Strategy Document with its emphasis on environmental sustainability, safety and quality of EU aquaculture production. I pointed out that the strategy, with meaningful stakeholder inclusion it has the potential to provide the appropriate framework for the sustainable development of the EU aquaculture sector. In the current global economic environment I believe we can further develop the Irish Aquaculture Industry in a sustainable manner to maximise the undoubted potential that exists.