Written Answers. - Aquaculture Development.
Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:
66
Mr. Gilmore
asked the
Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources
the plans there are for the development of aquaculture in Lough Swilly; his views on the level of aquaculture in the lough which is acceptable and sustainable; the plans he has to commission a study from the Marine Institute or the Central Fisheries Board of the potential of the lough; the further plans he has for the development of a coastal zone management policy for the lough and for the development of a coastal zone management policy for the lough; the total tonnage permissible; the actual tonnage being produced in respect of each licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[5260/01]
The overall objective of Government policy is to support the sustainable development of the aquaculture sector in harmony with other marine users. The capacity of a water body such as Lough Swilly is a concept dependent on a very wide range of factors at any one time. In this context it should be noted that aquaculture is itself affected by other activities and depends fundamentally on a clean environment.
While I have no proposals to commission a study on the overall aquaculture potential of Lough Swilly, it is important to note that, in accordance with the Fisheries (Amendment) Act, 1997, each application for aquaculture licensing is considered on its merits and takes account of such matters as any adverse impacts on wild fisheries, navigational and safety issues and the impact of the development on the marine environment, as well as other users of the marine resource. Furthermore, all salmon farming licensing proposals must be accompanied by a detailed environmental impact statement. In addition, the establishment under the 1997 Act of an independent aquaculture licences appeals board, enables appeals to be taken against licensing decisions.
The licensing framework and ancillary supports such as co-ordinated local aquaculture management systems are already facilitating the development of aquaculture on a sustainable and environmentally appropriate basis. CLAMS aims to involve all local interests, including anglers, tourism interests, fish farmers, statutory agencies, environmentalists and local representatives in jointly managing the various activities in a designated area. CLAMS is currently operating successfully in a number of areas with significant aquaculture activity and a draft CLAMS plan for Lough Swilly is currently nearing completion.
Production limits are incorporated into each salmon farming licence. The current limit on salmon production in the lough is 1,000 tonnes per annum at three licensed sites. While shellfish licences do not include limitations on licensed production, those areas within which the farming activity may take place are defined under licence. Production is dependent on growth rates which vary with conditions such as location, environmental factors and operation. Estimated aquaculture production in the lough last year was some 1,150 tonnes of which 150 tonnes related to shellfish production.
