The IFA are calling for amendments to the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund rules to be implemented by the government.

The amendments to the EU-wide fund allows for support measures to be introduced for aquaculture producers.

The measures enables financial compensation to be granted to the aquaculture sector for the temporary suspension and  reduction of production and sales, or for the additional storage costs, occurred between 1 February and 31 December 2020.

IFA Aquaculture Chairman and Westport native Michael Mulloy told Midwest News that State Aid rules must be relaxed  to allow grant aid for aquaculture operators.