(Limerick West): Priority attention in aquaculture in recent months has had to be given to the establishment of an improved inspection system for the industry, the assessment of licence applications for important new projects and the conduct of various legal proceedings.It has not been possible, therefore, due to these priorities and staff shortages, which I am glad to say are now being rectified, to advance the detailed work of this group.
The group will begin their work this week and I will be pressing for an early response from them. I will set a deadline for the conclusion of the group's work once they have discussed the various issues they need to address, including technical and other studies and the resources which may be required.