I propose to take Questions Nos. 203 to 207, inclusive, together.
Fees in respect of aquaculture licences are payable in accordance with the provisions of the 1997 Fisheries (Amendment) Act. My Department takes a pro-active approach in respect of the collection of fees. It would not be appropriate for me to comment on any particular case in view of the commercial sensitivities that may be involved. My Department received an application for the renewal of the licence in question on 7 February, 2011. The renewal application is currently under consideration in accordance with the provisions of the 1997 Fisheries (Amendment) Act and relevant EU legislation.
My Department has put in place a scheduled system of integrated inspections of all aspects of aquaculture operations. This is designed to further enhance monitoring and regulatory standards, practices and procedures. This detailed process includes the status of the sites by reference to Section 69 (2) of the 1997 Fisheries (Amendment) Act. This process is ongoing in the case of the site referred to by the Deputy. My Department has been advised by the Marine Institute that fish were moved by the operator into the site referred to by the Deputy, between 10 June 2013 and 21 June, 2013. This fish movement was authorised by the Marine Institute in accordance with the European Communities (Health of Aquaculture Animals and Products) Regulations 2008, S.I. No. 261 of 2008, as amended by S.I. No. 389 of 2010 and S.I. No. 430 of 2011.