Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 February 2017
546. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to Parliamentary Question Nos. 439 and 440 of 9 June 2015, the progress made on overstocking since his predecessor stated on 15 June 2015 that his Department had identified the issue of overstocking as a key operational priority over the next 12 months for the monitoring and compliance unit of his Department's aquaculture licensing division. [8490/17]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware a number of aquaculture sites operated by one company have been the subject of ongoing examination by my Department in respect of possible overstocking.
In the case of two of these sites - Lough Altan Hatchery and Inishfarnard, my Department’s examination has concluded.
In relation to the Lough Altan Hatchery, I have determined that an amendment to the licence held by the company in respect of this site would be appropriate. My Department is currently examining the nature of the amendment and will be following up with the company in relation to the matter.
In relation to Inishfarnard, I have determined that a provable breach of the applicable licence condition did not occur and that an amendment to the licence is the most appropriate way to address the issues that have arisen in this case.
As my Department’s examination in respect of the other sites is ongoing as part of a statutory process it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this time.
