Vol. 550 No. 4
163 Mr. Higgins (Mayo): asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he has received a request from the Mayo Environmental Group for the development of an independent integrated strategic plan for Clew Bay; and if he will accede to this request. [9083/02]
I confirm that I have received a request from the Mayo Environmental Group for the development of an integrated strategic plan for Clew Bay.
The Department, in conjunction with the Marine Institute and An Bord Iascaigh Mhara, is actively taking forward the co-ordinated local aquaculture management systems, CLAMS, process for all aquaculture growing areas. In December of last year I launched a CLAMS plan for Clew Bay. The plan provides for enhanced co-ordination and orchestration of stakeholder activities in the bay. The CLAMS group constitutes a sub-committee of the Clew Bay marine forum, which, in turn, represents the wider local coastal zone stakeholder interest, including inshore fishermen and local marine users. I am anxious to encourage local frameworks which will facilitate co-operation between all relevant interests in promoting the sustainable development of Clew Bay and I will be urging all local interests, including environmental interests, to participate in the process.
