Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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103. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to develop the seaweed industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34967/14]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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My Department has responsibility for the licensing of seaweed cultivation which at present operates on a very small scale. Most seaweed processing comes from the harvesting of wild seaweed, the licensing of which is the responsibility of the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government. I am advised by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), that the most recent survey of the Irish seaweed sector indicated that it generates an annual turnover of approximately €18 million, of which exports represent in the region of €6 million. The sector employs over 180 people (measured in Full Time Equivalents).

A number of Irish companies have in recent years, successfully demonstrated an ability to develop and export novel seaweed based products, including specialist fertilizers, commercial fish feed additives, pet foods and personal care products. The Irish seaweed industry is now moving towards adding value through a stronger focus on research based commercial development. The State will continue to support this type of development through a multi-agency approach involving the Marine Institute, BIM, Údarás na Gaeltachta and other agencies as appropriate.