asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if he is satisfied that smallholders and fishermen are availing themselves of grants for mariculture; and if he will give details of the incentives he proposes to promote mariculture among those whose need to supplement their income is greatest.

(Cavan-Monaghan): I am satisfied that grants for mariculture are being availed of by smallholders and fishermen. I feel that the mariculture grants scheme and the advisory services operated by An Bord Iascaigh Mhara, along with the technical and scientific advice and assistance available from officers of my Department and of the National Board for Science and Technology, provide adequate incentives for the promotion of mariculture in all our coastal communities.

Does the Minister not agree that in the initial stages of mariculture — I suppose where there is a high risk content — there has been a tendency for very big firms to take up practically 90 per cent of the grants involved? Does the Minister not feel that now is the time when the risk is over for smaller co-ops or smallholders to move into this field because they are the people who need the benefit? Can the Minister give the House any idea of the number of grants this year for mariculture and the type of people who availed of them?

(Cavan-Monaghan): I do not have that information with me but I agree with the Deputy that smallholders should be encouraged.