Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 September 2019
151. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the disappointment expressed by a company (details supplied) on receipt of the aquaculture and foreshore licences issued to it by his Department; if negotiations will be opened with the company; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39139/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department considers all applications for aquaculture licences in accordance with the provisions of the 1997 Fisheries (Amendment) Act, the 1933 Foreshore Act and applicable national and EU legislation. The licensing process involves consultation with a wide range of scientific and technical advisers as well as various Statutory Consultees. The legislation also provides for a period of public consultation.
Ministerial decisions have been made in respect of a number of Aquaculture licence applications for Wexford Harbour.
Appeals against Ministerial decisions in respect of Aquaculture Licence applications are considered by the Aquaculture Licences Appeals Board (ALAB) which is an independent body established by Statute for that purpose. Full details of the appeals process can be obtained at: http://www.alab.ie/appealsprocess/.
As appeals against these decisions may currently be submitted to ALAB and, in view of the independent status of ALAB, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further on the matter at this stage.
