Marine Minister Charlie McConalogue T.D launched the National Strategic Plan for Sustainable Aquaculture Development 2030 at the IFA Annual Aquaculture Conference today. The strategic plan outlines a vision for the Irish aquaculture industry in 2030.
During his keynote address, the Minister emphasised the importance of the European Maritime Fisheries & Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) and how the funding schemes provided by EMFAF can benefit the sector. He also highlighted the positive impact that a sustainable, profitable, competitive, and market-focused aquaculture sector can have on Ireland's coastal communities and the country as a whole.
The NSPSA is the result of extensive consultation with stakeholders, including the Irish Farmers Association (IFA). The Minister thanked the IFA and other stakeholders for their input in the development of the plan.
The launch of the NSPSA was met with enthusiasm by the aquaculture industry, as it sets a clear path for the sector to become a global standard in sustainability and quality. The Minister believes that the implementation of the plan will enable the industry to build and maintain its competitive edge in the future
The NSPSA is up forward as a significant step in the continued development of a sustainable, profitable, and competitive aquaculture sector in Ireland. With its implementation, the sector hopes to optimise environmental performance and support the natural capital upon which it depends while making a long-term economic and social contribution to the country's coastal communities and Ireland as a whole.
The National Strategic Plan for Sustainable Aquaculture (NSPSA) is available here