Ireland’s sea lice control protocols are operated by the Marine Institute and involve regular inspections of marine fin fish sites by Marine Institute Inspectors (sites are inspected 14 times per annum). Results of inspections are provided to the farm operators within 5 working days. Results are also reported to my Department and to other interested parties such as Inland Fisheries Ireland. Overall results and trends are published annually. Notices to treat are issued to operators if lice levels are found to be above treatment trigger levels.
These protocols are considered to be more advanced that those operated in other jurisdictions for the following reasons:
- The inspection regime is totally independent of the industry.
- Data obtained as a result of inspections is published and made widely available.
- Treatment trigger levels are set at a low level.
In 2008, the State introduced a new Pest Management Strategy, supplementing the control regime already in place. This has resulted in a steady decline in average sea lice numbers on farmed salmon since its inception.
Ireland’s sea lice protocols have been the subject of detailed investigation by the EU Commission in response to a complaint from a member of the public in respect of the effects of sea lice on wild salmon. On 11 October 2012, the Commission closed its investigation of this complaint in the State’s favour following its examination of all relevant matters. The Commission has also indicated that it regards the sea lice protocols operated in Ireland as representing best practice internationally.
Fish farm operators are required to comply fully with directions to treat fish and with other directions regarding lice control. In situations where treatment has not been sufficient to bring lice levels below treatment trigger levels the operators have been directed to take additional measures. These actions include additional sustained treatments, early fallowing of sites and accelerated harvesting. My Department is advised by the Marine Institute that fish farm operators have complied with all directions issued on this matter.
