I propose to take Questions Nos. 374 and 375 together.
I received the Report of the Independent Aquaculture Licensing Review Group on 31st May 2017. The Group’s Report is published and available to view on my Department’s website at www.agriculture.gov.ie/seafood/aquacultureforeshoremanagement/aquaculturelicensing/. The overarching conclusion of the Report is for a root-and-branch reform of the aquaculture licence application processes to take place with a focus on both short-term immediate actions and longer term initiatives. There are a total of 30 recommendations in the Report.
Since receiving the Report my Department has engaged in detailed consideration of all 30 recommendations with a view to preparing a comprehensive implementation plan. This implementation plan will take account of legislative, environmental, technical and public interest issues that have a bearing on the sustainable development of the industry.
My Department’s work on the implementation plan is at a very advanced stage. However, as consideration of all relevant issues remains ongoing it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this time.