Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 January 2018
454. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will commission research on Irish shellfish sites in view of research findings in the UK and elsewhere showing the presence of microplastics in shellfish grown for human consumption; and if he will initiate a moratorium on shellfish licensing pending the outcome of that research. [3244/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has asked the Marine Institute to review the research referred to by the Deputy and to revert on the matter.
In relation to a possible moratorium on licensing applications, aquaculture licences are considered by my Department in accordance with the provisions for the 1997 Fisheries (Amendment) Act, the 1933 Foreshore Act and applicable EU legislation. All licensing decisions are taken following the fullest consideration of all environmental, technical and public interest elements of each application.
In the circumstances, and in the absence of a legislative provision for a moratorium, I do not consider it appropriate to initiate a moratorium on licensing.
