McConalogue announces further programs for the Irish seafood sector

Seafood training program

The purpose of this scheme is:

• Develop industry skills in the processing, aquaculture and fishing sectors, including seafood retail.
• Supporting young fishermen, especially current crew members of small-scale coastal fishing vessels (SSCF), to enter the sector and facilitate generational renewal through training aimed at upgrading skills and developing human capital.
• Improving health, safety and working conditions on board Irish fishing vessels through training to improve skills and develop human capital.
• Developing skills (e.g. digital literacy) and capacity within the sector to engage on key issues including the introduction of new technologies and digital transformation across the Irish fleet.
• We use technology and improved knowledge to facilitate the development of the aquaculture sector through training and skills development.
• Promoting the sustainable development of new and existing aquaculture enterprises through training to improve skills and develop human capital.
• We leverage technology and enhanced knowledge to facilitate growth in the processing sector through training and skills development.

This program provides:

• Up to 50% subsidy assistance for eligible industrial beneficiaries
• Up to 100% subsidy for SSCF ship owners

The Minister stated that he was pleased to announce the program, saying:

“The Seafood Training Scheme will provide essential practical support for those working in the seafood sector to develop the skills and knowledge they need to support all aspects of their work. Whether that’s potentially life-saving safety training, fishing vessel engineering skills or fishmonger skills, it also provides support for those looking to enter employment or develop new careers within the sector. Providing this support helps us ensure we have a highly skilled, flexible workforce that has the knowledge and skills they need to meet the demands of their roles and keep up with new production methods, quality and hygiene standards and diversification in the sector.”

The Minister concluded:

“These two new programmes, together with those I announced last week, clearly demonstrate the breadth of support available through our EMFAF Seafood Development Programme. They provide the investment needed to support the resilience and sustainability of the seafood sector, both commercially and environmentally. They will help ensure that in the face of challenges such as climate change and ever-changing market conditions, the Irish seafood sector continues to deliver a high-quality product and remains competitive in the global marketplace.”

The two schemes are administered by the seafood development agency Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) in Ireland and applications will be accepted from 1 July 2024. Full details will be available on www.bim.ie

Source: press release