asked the Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestry if it is the intention to carry out a public investigation in relation to application made for fish farming at St. John's Point, Dunkineely, County Donegal, in view of the concern expressed by local inshore fishermen that the proposed fish farm will have a serious detrimental effect on their livelihood, and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - County Donegal Fish Farming.
66.
Mr. Coughlan
I am aware of the concerns expressed by local inshore fishermen and by other interests regarding applications which have been received to engage in fish farming in areas adjacent to St. John's Point, Dunkineely, County Donegal.
The applications in question will be dealt with under section 54 of the Fisheries Act, 1980, which allows me to designate areas within which it shall be lawful to engage in aquaculture subject to licence. This designation procedure allows for the holding of an inquiry should circumstances so demand. In the present case I consider it desirable to hold a public inquiry in the matter before considering the application further. At present a programme of inquiries for various areas is being arranged and notice of the inquiry in this case will be published in due course.