All applications for aquaculture licences are considered by my Department in accordance with the provisions of the 1997 Fisheries (Amendment) Act and (in the case of marine aquaculture) the 1933 Foreshore Act. The assessment process takes full account of all National and EU legislative requirements and reflects the full scientific, environmental, legal, public policy and engineering aspects of each application. The legislation also provides for a period of public consultation which is currently ongoing in respect of licence applications in Kilmakilloge Harbour.
An Appropriate Assessment of Aquaculture and Fisheries Risk Assessment in Kenmare River Special Areas of Conservation was conducted by the Marine Institute on behalf of my Department. The report is available to view on my Department’s website at
Licences
As the licence applications are currently under active consideration by my Department as part of a statutory process, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further on the matter at this time.