Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 February 2022
965. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the way that it is ensured that aquaculture licences are subject to fair due process throughout the statutory and public consultation process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8046/22]
View answerMy Department considers all applications for aquaculture licences in accordance with the provisions of the 1997 Fisheries (Amendment) Act, the 1933 Foreshore Act and applicable national and EU legislation. The licensing process involves consultation with a wide range of scientific and technical advisors as well as various Statutory Consultees. The legislation also provides for a period of public consultation.
Decisions in respect of aquaculture licence applications are only taken following full consideration of all views submitted as part of the statutory and public consultation process. The licence application process is designed to strike a balance between the rights and obligations of all parties including the applicant(s), statutory consultees, relevant NGOs and the general public. I am satisfied that the current licensing system meets all of these requirements.
