Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 October 2022
204. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps that he is taking to examine the implications of the EPA report on Urban Waste Water Treatment in 2021 and its findings on the inshore fishing sector. [53882/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government recognises the importance of investment in waste water infrastructure which will deliver significant improvements in our waste water services throughout the country, including rural Ireland, and support a range of programmes delivering improved water quality in rivers, lakes and in the marine area. The EPA report referred to by the Deputy recognises that progress is being made by Irish Water in resolving environmental issues and advocates that priority is given to areas where improvements are most needed and which will bring the greatest benefits. The Deputy may wish to refer any queries on the actions as recommended by the EPA in this report to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
As Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, my own responsibility towards the marine environment is to ensure sea-fishing and aquaculture activities are conducted in a manner that avoids the deterioration of designated features of Natura 2000 conservations sites or the significant disturbance of protected species within those sites. The majority of the marine Natura 2000 sites (Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas) are inshore, within six nautical miles. A series of appropriate assessments and risk assessments have been undertaken by my Department over the years with regard to sea-fishing and aquaculture activities in or near Natura 2000 sites. Mitigation measures have been introduced where required to manage the risks posed to sites.
My Department supports the ongoing work of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, and I am committed to supporting the Irish fishing industry, including the inshore sector, to operate in a sustainable manner and to continue working towards achieving and maintaining good environmental status in Irish waters.
