Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 April 2004
47 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the progress made in regard to his Department’s comprehensive review of the existing procedures for the monitoring and control of aquaculture generally which he had indicated would be completed by the end of January 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10225/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraA comprehensive review of the procedures for monitoring, control and enforcement in respect of aquaculture has been undertaken in my Department. The work involved is substantially completed, but its finalisation was held over pending the availability of the Marine Institute's report on mortalities at fish farms in Donegal Bay, which was published this month. The review will now be completed as soon as possible.
The review has considered, in particular, how existing systems and processes may need to be refined or reinforced to ensure the optimal operation of monitoring and control programmes for aquaculture. If changes are required to legislation or procedures or practices on foot of the review, the necessary action will be taken as a priority.
