Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 April 2024
493. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a decision will issue on an application for a foreshore licence (details supplied); if it is lawful to carry out acquaculture activities at the site in the meantime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17894/24]
View answerThe operator of the site the Deputy refers to was issued with an aquaculture licence by the Aquaculture Licence Appeals Board (ALAB) on 26 January 2023 “for the cultivation of Native and Pacific Oyster on a site…”. The holder of an aquaculture licence also requires a Foreshore Licence.
My Department is currently processing a Foreshore Licence for this site. All applications for a foreshore licence are considered in accordance with the provisions of the Foreshore Act 1933 (as amended) and applicable national and EU legislation. The licensing process involves consultation with scientific and technical advisers and Statutory Consultees. The legislation also provides for a period of public consultation. The consultation process for this application concluded on 9 March. The Department is currently considering the submissions received.
As this application is under active consideration, it would not be appropriate to comment further on the matter at this time.
