Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 May 2026
176. Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine whether FLAG funding for the North West has been paused; whether funding will be made available for Fanad lighthouse; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35411/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Fisheries Local Action Groups (FLAGs) work to support a sustainable blue economy in coastal communities, through the evaluation and selection of projects for funding under a scheme designed to support community-led local development. Each of the FLAGs has invested considerable time and effort in developing their respective strategies, which set out the priorities for funding in their areas.
This scheme is being administered by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), whose officers work closely with the FLAGs to support their work. This scheme is being implemented under Ireland's Seafood Development Programme, which is co-funded by the Government and the EU Commission under the European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) 2021-2027.
My Department has engaged with BIM regarding the application through the FLAG Northwest. BIM have advised that correspondence has issued from BIM to the applicant on the 6th May 2026 and that they welcome continued engagement from the applicant. Additionally, it is anticipated the scheme will re-open later this year.
