Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 January 2013
880. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will expedite the procession of applications for aquaculture licences in Castlemaine harbour, County Kerry; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that these delays are hindering job creation and investment in this important industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1206/13]
View answerCastlemaine Harbour is designated as a Special Area of Conservation under the EU Habitats Directive and a Special Protection Area under the EU Birds Directive (Natura 2000 site).
My Department, in conjunction with the Marine Institute and the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, has engaged in a major programme to gather the necessary baseline data appropriate to the conservation objectives of aquaculture sites located within designated Natura areas, including Castlemaine Harbour.
The setting of Conservation Objectives and the carrying out of an Appropriate Assessment for the purpose of ensuring compliance with the conservation objectives has been completed in respect of Castlemaine.
The overall licensing process for Castlemaine is at an advanced stage and the public consultation stage of the licensing process has now been completed.
My Department is currently examining all other relevant policy issues with the applications and every effort is being made to expedite the licensing process.
