Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 June 2018
971. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the reason his Department has not yet concluded its investigation into the licence breaches at various salmon farms operated by a company (details supplied); and if this delay is due to the conflict of interest that arises for his Department between the proper regulation of salmon farming and the development of the industry. [24759/18]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware my Department is currently examining possible breaches of licence conditions in respect of a number of aquaculture licences held by the Company referred to by the Deputy. My Department is also examining a possible breach of licence conditions in respect of a licence held by a third party and operated by the Company referred to by the Deputy.
There is always a strict separation between my Department’s regulatory function in respect of aquaculture and its duty to promote the sustainable development of the industry. This separation of duties is strictly observed.
Every effort is being made by my Department to bring these examinations to a conclusion as soon as possible having regard to the complexities involved. As these examinations are part of an ongoing statutory process it would not be appropriate for me to comment further.
