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Aquaculture Industry

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 June 2022

Tuesday, 21 June 2022

Ceisteanna (920)

Pádraig MacLochlainn

Ceist:

920. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when the regulation of aquaculture activities will be transferred to the newly established Marine Area Regulatory Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32567/22]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

My 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.

The 2021 Maritime Area Planning Act provides for the establishment of the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA), a new state agency under the aegis of the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government which will be responsible for consenting and enforcement functions under the Act.

Following significant consideration of the matter, it was concluded by Government decision that development and activities for which the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine is the appropriate Minister will continue to be regulated under the Fisheries (Amendment) Act 1997 and the 1933 Foreshore Act as amended and are thus excluded from the scope of the new consenting regime. This continues to enable an applicant to apply for both an aquaculture licence and relevant foreshore licence from one Government source.

My Department will continue to engage with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage as the MARA is established to ensure provision is made for early, effective and ongoing engagement on any developments which may affect the marine areas utilised by the seafood sector.

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