MEP Pat the Cope Gallagher has welcomed the official announcement by the Killybegs Fishermen's Organisation (KFO) that they in conjunction with Norwegian firm Biomarine Science Technology have agreed to develop a new facility in Killybegs.

The proposed facility will have the capacity to process 50,000 tonnes of raw material, which to a large extent will include boar fish and other species such as blue whiting.

Mr Gallagher said: "I want to pay tribute to the KFO for attracting an international partner specialising in bio marine ingredients. This is a welcome jobs boost for Killybegs and the County of Donegal which will result in the creation of up to 50 jobs during the construction phase and a further 70 direct and indirect jobs when it goes into full production.

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"I was centrally involved in introducing legislation in the European Parliament in 2011, which facilitated the exploitation of the boar fishery by ensuring the use of the most appropriate fishing gear type. This has helped Ireland to secure 70% of the Total Allowable Catch for the entire fishery. I believe that it may not have been possible to establish such a facility, if not for the exceptionally high quota which Ireland secured."

Speaking at the announcement in Killybegs, Mr Gallagher confirmed that if re-elected to the European Parliament on May 23rd, he hopes to serve once again on the Committee on Fisheries, if selected by his political group in the European Parliament.

(CD/IT)