Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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154. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of fishermen who have applied for grants for loss of lobster pots and shrimp pots, respectively, due to the storms this winter; the number who have received payment to date; the total payment made under this scheme to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16999/14]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Earlier this year, in response to the exceptional loss of pots reported by fishermen as a result of the severe storms experienced in January and February, I introduced a Shellfish Pot Replacement Scheme to assist pot fishermen with the cost of replacing lobster, crab and shrimp pots. The Scheme is to provide 40% of the cost of replacing these lost pots through fixed payments of €24 per lobster/crab pot and €12 per shrimp pot.

The Scheme is being administered by Bord Iascaigh Mhara. By the closing date of 28 March 2014, BIM had received 151 applications. These applications are being examined by BIM, so I am unable at this point in time to provide further details of the breakdown of the applications. BIM has advised me that it hopes to have all applications processed and paid by end May.