Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 16 September 2016
1647. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if licensing of aquaculture on Lough Foyle can take place without an appropriate assessment or having had conservation objectives established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24671/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised that under Article 6 of the Habitats Directive it is a requirement for aquaculture licensing in both jurisdictions, North and South, to undertake appropriate assessment of the implications for the site in view of the site's conservation objectives.
I understand that there is a requirement to set conservation objectives prior to completing an appropriate assessment for aquaculture licensing in order to ensure a robust assessment. Such assessments fall within the remit of the Department of Agriculture Food and Marine.
