All applications relating to developments for licensing under the Foreshore Acts, 1933 and 1992 — including marine culture of salmonid fish — are assessed under the European Communities (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 1989. Applications for licences under the Fisheries (Consolidation) Act, 1959 for the landbased culture of salmonid fish require assessment under those regulations by the relevant local authority.
A report is presented to both Houses of the Oireachtas each year providing details of all leases and licences granted in the preceding calendar year under the Foreshore Acts, including those related to the marine culture of salmonid fish.
With regard to other development areas within my Department's remit, such as port development, afforestation and exploration and mining, these activities are subject to local authority planning and are therefore examined under the planning and development process.