Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 November 2025
315. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will establish a funding mechanism to assist aquaculture producers when difficulties arise that is, storm damage, stock losses and biological challenges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64336/25]
View answerMy Department supports the development of the Irish aquaculture sector under Ireland's €258 Seafood Development Programme, which is co-funded by the Irish government and the EU Commission under the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF).
I am aware of the challenges facing aquaculture producers where damage or stock mortality arises due to environmental, climate or biological events. Where possible aquaculture operators should ensure they have adequate insurance cover in place for these types of events, as would be the norm for any business.
I am equally aware however of difficulties being experienced by industry in obtaining insurance cover for certain types of risks, and I have asked Department officials to identify what supports could be developed in respect of uninsurable risks, whether under our Seafood Development Programme or any other alternative mechanism. Work is underway in relation to this.
It is important to note that having robust baseline data available on stocking levels and normal levels of mortality will be required in respect of any scheme that may be possible to develop to compensate aquaculture operators for losses arising from stock mortality due to external events. At present aquaculture operators are not required to report all stock mortality, only those related to notifiable diseases or where the cause cannot be determined.
In the event that a possible funding mechanism can be identified, it is important to note that the Department and relevant agencies will need engagement and support from industry in relation to ensuring the necessary baseline data is available for all aquaculture sectors.
