I propose to take Questions Nos. 599 and 612 together.
Applications to my Department for conducting seismic surveys are assessed in accordance with the provisions of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive which aims to ensure that plans, programmes and projects likely to have significant effects on the environment are made subject to an environmental assessment, prior to their approval or authorisation.
The assessment of seismic applications considers, inter alia, the effects of seismic sources on adult fish, as well as eggs and larvae based on the information provided in the application and additional scientific sources.
Furthermore, applicants for seismic surveys are required to consult with all fishing representative bodies both domestic and international and the contact names and details within these bodies are advertised on my Department’s Website. Submissions received on foot of this consultation form part of the decision making process.
In addition, it should be noted that all permitted seismic surveys are conditioned to engage a Fisheries Liaison Officer (FLO) and to maintain an FLO on the seismic vessel for the duration of the survey.
