Grants to attract new blood to fishing sector

YOUNG fishermen can avail of a grant to cover 15% of the cost of buying a boat under a Government scheme to bring “new blood” into the sector.

Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney unveiled the new “Special Assistance for Young Fishermen” scheme during a weekend visit to BIM in Castletownbere, Co Cork.

Fishermen under 40 years of age who have not previously owned a fishing vessel can avail of grant aid up to 15% (up to a €50,000 limit) of the purchase cost of a second-hand whitefish vessel.