Fish Farming

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 February 2014

Thursday, 27 February 2014

Questions (231)

Noel Grealish

Question:

231. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the statutory authority that An Bord Iascaigh Mhara purport to engage in salmon farming operations, expend monies and apply to become the operator of a fish farm in Galway Bay; the specific section and which relevant legislation empowers An Bord Iascaigh Mhara to operate a salmon farming enterprise; if he will refer this question to the Attorney General for clarification as to the boards legal entitlement to apply and be licensed to operate a commercial salmon farming enterprise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10288/14]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), the Irish Sea Fisheries Board, is the Irish State agency with responsibility for developing sustainable Irish Sea Fishing and Aquaculture industries. BIM was established under the Sea Fisheries Act 1952. The powers and functions of the Board of BIM are enumerated at paragraphs 15 (a) - (u) of Section 15 and the first schedule to the 1952 Act. The specific powers granted to BIM under the 1952 Act are extensive and provide the statutory authority by which BIM is empowered to act.

I am satisfied that BIM’s authority to apply for an aquaculture licence is clearly within its legal remit and capacity as provided for by its establishing legislation.

As the aquaculture licence application in question is under active consideration, as part of the statutory process, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this time.