Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 1646: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the recent attitudinal survey regarding the decommissioning scheme; his plans regarding extending the decommissioning scheme in 2011 to vessels of less 18 metres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32544/10]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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The recent surveys on decommissioning of fishing vessels were conducted as part of a Value for Money (VFM) Review, currently underway in my Department. This Review is focussed on the decommissioning schemes from 2005/06 and 2008. VFM Reviews are part of the Government's long-term Expenditure Review Programme. Their principal objectives are to ensure that analysis of the impacts of Exchequer spending is carried out in a systematic manner and to provide a basis on which more informed decisions can be made in the future. My Department identified the decommissioning schemes as one of its VFM priorities for the 2009-2011 round. The surveys of vessel owners were part of the stakeholder consultation, which is an essential part of the VFM Review process. The results will inform a report on the Review, which I expect will be published in the coming months.

I have no plans for a further decommissioning scheme at present. Any further scheme will be considered in the context of available funding and priorities for support within the seafood sector.