Michael Colreavy (Sligo-North Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
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Question 531: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the changes being planned particularly in relation to departmental and fishery harbour centres personnel and processes to address and overcome the weaknesses identified in a report (details supplied); and if he will ensure the future operation of FHCs contribute to the fullest extent possible to the vision of fully functioning, vibrant FHCs that contribute significantly to employment creation in the areas. [18527/11]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The Business Plan for the development of the Fishery Harbour Centres was published in 2009 and has identified opportunities for the continued development of the Fishery Harbour Centres and the enhancement of the services provided. The business plan suggests a five year time-frame for the full implementation of its recommendations and I can confirm that my Department has and continues to be active in the implementation of its recommendations.

One of the areas highlighted by the report was in relation to my Departments property portfolio at the Fishery Harbour Centres. My Departments staff have considered carefully the various actions recommended in the report and I can confirm that all the recommendations in this regard are being actively progressed.

In the broader context, I am of course fully aware of the valuable contribution that the Fishery Harbour Centres make to the local and national economies. This contribution is due in no small way to the effort and commitment of my staff who continue to provide the benefit of their experience and indeed retrain where necessary so as to maximise the valuable resource provided by the Fishery Harbour Centres.