Vol. 548 No. 4
81 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if there are existing fish farms for the breeding or cultivation of salmonoid species which are within or adjacent to a European nature conservation site as designated under the EU Habitats and Birds Directives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5045/02]
There are existing licensed salmonoid fish farms within and adjacent to sites designated, or proposed to be designated, as special areas of conservation under the EU Habitats Directive. It is important to note that such developments are not precluded within SACs as long as they do not interfere with their integrity and are deemed not to have a significant effect on the conservation objectives of the particular area. Strict monitoring and other safeguards are in place to ensure this.
