Marine Resources

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 February 2013

Thursday, 14 February 2013

Questions (298)

Pádraig MacLochlainn

Question:

298. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department is currently leasing Lough Foyle for the purposes of aquaculture activities from the Crown Estates Commission; the duration of the lease as well as the general terms and provisions of the lease; the amount of hectarage that it is currently leasing from the Crown Estates Commission in respect of aquaculture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7824/13]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

My Department is not currently involved in any lease in Lough Foyle from the Crown Estates Commission. It is, however, working with the Loughs Agency and other relevant Departments and agencies towards the conclusion of a management agreement for both the Foyle and Carlingford areas in order to facilitate the acquisition by the Loughs Agency of aquaculture licensing functions for these Loughs. The issues involved are complex and involve many stakeholders.