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Representation in Ireland
  • News article
  • 14 July 2022
  • Representation in Ireland
  • 1 min read

State aid: European Commission approves €20 million Irish scheme for aquaculture sector in the context of Brexit

The European Commission has approved, under EU State aid rules, a €20 million Irish scheme to support the aquaculture sector affected by the effects of the withdrawal of the UK from the EU.

Aquaculture fisherman

The scheme is aimed at mitigating the adverse impact on employment in the coastal communities, by supporting the development of an alternative source of raw material supply for seafood processors and by enhancing the viability of aquaculture companies.

The scheme will be open to aquaculture producers that will purchase and install new machinery and equipment, as well as construct new premises, with the aim of increasing the production, enhancing the quality of the aquaculture products or substantially increasing energy efficiency.

Under the scheme, the aid will take the form of direct grants, covering up to 50% of the actual investment costs. The scheme will run until 31 December 2023.

The measure is planned to be financed under the Brexit Adjustment Reserve, established to mitigate the economic and social impact of Brexit, subject to approval under the specific provisions governing funding from that instrument.

The Commission assessed the measures under Article 107(3)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, which allows Member States to support the development of certain economic activities or areas under certain conditions, and under the Guidelines for the examination of State aid to the fishery and aquaculture sector.

The Commission found that the scheme facilitates the development of an economic activity and does not adversely affect trading conditions to an extent contrary to the common interest. On this basis, the Commission approved the Irish measure under EU State aid rules.

The non-confidential version of the decision will be made available under the case number SA.102229 in the State aid register on the Commission's competition website once any confidentiality issues have been resolved.

Details

Publication date
14 July 2022
Author
Representation in Ireland