Despite numerous requests for support with rising costs, Irish aquaculture has been ignored, according to the representative body for the country’s fish farmers, IFA Aquaculture.
It has taken issue with a claim by the Marine Minister that he has supported the sector through the Ukrainian crisis.
The Minister’s appearance on RTE’s Prime Time has been criticised, where he said he had supported the Irish seafood sector during the Ukraine crisis. Teresa Morrissey, Executive of IFA Aquaculture, has made a strong riposte: “He hasn’t. As ever, Irish aquaculture has been ignored, despite numerous requests for support with rising costs.
“Some fish feed costs have almost doubled recently. Electricity costs will increase by an average of €100.000 this year for some operators. Raw materials costs have increased. Some of our members estimate they will spend an extra €350.000 over coming 12 months. This is not sustainable for Irish Aquaculture operators and their businesses will no longer be profitable unless there are significant supports during this time of crisis to assist with spiralling input costs.”
Irish Aquaculture has huge potential, says the IFA.
“The State needs to believe in the sector.”
Listen to Teresa Morrissey of IFA Aquaculture below.