Northern Ireland’s fishing and seafood sector need investment, according to new report

Poots publishes report into fishing and seafood sector

Edwin Poots MLA has published the findings of a major report regarding the investment needs of the fishing and seafood sector in Northern Ireland.

The report was produced by the Fishing and Seafood Development Programme (FSDP), which was established by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to conduct a strategic review of the opportunities for developing the sea fishing and seafood sectors in NI as a whole, including the potential role of new public investment in infrastructure.

The report focuses on recommendations in relation to capital investment at the main fishery harbours and highlights a number of challenges and opportunities for the wider industry that could be addressed through a future fisheries financial support scheme.

Commenting on the report Minister Poots said: “I am hopeful that the publication of the FSDP report marks the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the fishing industry here.  The report highlights the considerable investment that is required to help the industry adapt to the challenges it faces and grasp the opportunities presented following the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union.

“We need to build a stronger and more resilient fishing and seafood industry that can adapt to change.  Of course this will not be easy but I hope that with government and industry working together we can build new infrastructure, become more prosperous, improve the marine environment and enhance our reputation as suppliers of quality sustainable seafood.”

The Report can be downloaded at https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/fsdp