Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 February 2022
463. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will ensure that all applications under the current aquaculture licensing system undergoing statutory consultation are subject to fair and due process throughout the process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10626/22]
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 advisors as well as various Statutory Consultees. The legislation also provides for a period of public consultation.
Decisions in respect of aquaculture licence applications are only taken following full consideration of all views submitted as part of both the statutory and public consultation process. The licence application process is designed to strike a balance between the rights and obligations of all parties including the applicant(s), statutory consultees, relevant NGOs and the general public. I am satisfied that the current licensing system meets all of these requirements.
