Mussel industry aiming to stay strong

PIONEERING technologies and skills in production, processing and marketing has lifted the Irish rope mussel industry from zero over the past two decades to a position where it now has an estimated final sales value of €20 million, it was revealed in a report published yesterday.

But the Bord Iascaigh Mhara and Enterprise Ireland-commissioned document warned that maximising sustained profitability can only be achieved if the industry, which employs 570 people on 59 farms and five processing and exporting companies, collectively supports a quality-driven, innovation-led approach.

The document was presented at the Irish Shellfish Association’s annual conference in Ennis, Co Clare, to Marine Minister John Browne.

PricewaterhouseCoopers prepared the document which involved overseas market research by BIM and extensive consultation with state and industry stakeholders.

BIM chief executive Pat Keogh said the Irish rope mussel industry is now operating in a more global market, where it will experience increased competition from low cost third country producers.

“Success in the marketplace in the future will depend on the industry’s ability to define and play to its competitive advantage.

“It is generally recognised that there is wide scope for further development of the industry and we must work together to realise that potential.

“This will require a change in the operating model at production, processing and marketing along with the commitment of increased resources into market-led innovation at all stages of the supply chain,” he said.

Irish Shellfish Association Executive Secretary Ritchie Flynn said the review offers a very useful blueprint for progress in the industry. Most welcome is the extensive level of consultation that has gone into it.