Hugh Byrne
Question:170 Mr. H. Byrne asked the Minister for the Marine when the necessity for a licence for oyster cultivation was introduced; the changes in requirements in recent years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6895/95]
Written Answers. - Oyster Cultivation.
Oyster bed licences and oyster fishery orders were granted historically for the preservation and working of natural oyster beds. The Fisheries (Consolidation) Act, 1959 retained these provisions but also made provision for fish culture licensing. With the enactment of the Fisheries Act, 1980 the Minister no longer has powers to grant oyster bed licences and oyster fishery orders.
Oyster farming, as opposed to working natural beds, is a recent development and this intensive form of cultivation, as with aquaculture generally, is dealt with by way of licence under the Fisheries and Foreshore Acts.