Vol. 574 No. 1
336 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he has examined the practices of fish farming with a view to eliminating the threat of pollution; his plans to set out further guidelines in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26582/03]
Consideration of an application for an aquaculture licence involves taking into account, among other factors and issues, the likely effects of the proposed aquaculture on the environment. Where a licence is granted it is subject to such terms and conditions as are considered appropriate, including any conditions deemed necessary for environmental or ecological protection.
Licences for finfish farms include conditions requiring compliance with the terms of a number of protocols, dealing with matters such as benthic monitoring. Data to date from such monitoring indicate that the environmental effects, if any, of fish farming are small scale and localised.
The position will be kept under review. Consideration will be given to the introduction of further guidelines or requirements should such a course of action appear necessary.
Question No. 337 answered with Question No. 131.
