Vol. 400 No. 2
20 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Marine the number of occassions on which the working group on fresh water fish farming has met; if any deadline has been set for the conclusion of the group's work; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
(Limerick West): Priority attention in aquaculture in recent months has had to be given to the establishment of an improved inspection system for the industry, the assessment of licence applications for important new projects and the conduct of various legal proceedings.It has not been possible, therefore, due to these priorities and staff shortages, which I am glad to say are now being rectified, to advance the detailed work of this group.
The group will begin their work this week and I will be pressing for an early response from them. I will set a deadline for the conclusion of the group's work once they have discussed the various issues they need to address, including technical and other studies and the resources which may be required.
I find the Minister's reply quite remarkable, given the fanfare that met the announcement of the establishment of the working group on fresh water fish farming. I recall that on a previous occasion——
Ceist le do thoil. This is Question Time.
The question is coming. I recall that on a previous occasion the Minister indicated that this group were about to commence their work. Have the group been given their terms of reference?
(Limerick West): As I have already indicated, the group will commence work this week, and I have given the reason for the delay.
I would like the Minister to answer the question I asked, which is similar to a question I asked on a previous occasion. Has he yet given this group, who are about to meet this week, their terms of reference?
(Limerick West): In due course the group will receive their terms of reference.
They are working outside the terms at present.
As the work of the groups is about to begin, can the Minister assist us by putting the terms of reference on the record of the House?
(Limerick West): As I have said, the terms of reference will be indicated to the group.
Would the Minister agree that there is considerable disquiet on the whole question of finish farming, including fresh water fish farming? In view of the very slim resources available to the Department to monitor existing fish farms, would the Minister agree that it is highly irresponsible to even consider granting new licences in this area?
(Limerick West): I do not accept that. There are regulations in force and table are kept on all applications.I can assure the Deputy that all the relevant agencies will be involved in ensuring that the decisions with regard to these applications are made in the interests of the applicants, the environment and all concerned.
Would the Minister not agree that he is not in a position to monitor the existing fish farms without considering any new ones?
(Limerick West): I have indicated that all fish farms will be monitored.
I hope so.
Is the Minister in a position to tell the House if the working group, which he says will meet this week, will be presented with their terms of reference at their first meeting?
(Limerick West): Yes.
