FLAG (Fisheries Local Action Groups) were established throughout the EU under the European Fisheries Fund (EFF).  FLAGS are responsible for implementing The Fisheries Local Area Development which provides grant aid towards the sustainable development of fishery dependent areas in defined coastal areas including Wicklow (similar to the LEADER Rural Development Programme).  The programme can provide grants to help coastal communities by adding value to seafood products, diversity from fishing, growing marine tourism, improvement of small harbours/coastal environment/infrastructure, providing new skills for fishermen, providing new/enhanced services to fishing communities.