Vol. 484 No. 4
52 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the current position regarding illegal mussel farming in Dunmanus Bay, County Cork which Deputy Callely brought to his attention some time ago; the progress, if any, made to date in this regard; the likely action and penalties, if any, that can be imposed on such activity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22105/97]
The company in question, as instructed, is arranging the orderly removal of the mussel longlines from the site at Dooneen, Dunmanus Bay, County Cork. The situation is being closely monitored by the Department and failure by the company to deliver on that instruction, as I have already previously advised the Deputy, will result in legal proceedings.
The Fisheries (Amendment) Act, 1997 which will be commenced shortly, provides for strict penalties for undertaking aquaculture without a licence and for non-compliance with licence conditions. Penalties for an offence involving illegal aquaculture development have been revised to a maximum of £200 per day on summary conviction and £1,000 per day on conviction on indictment.
