John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 6:

In page 6, line 19, after "sea" to insert "or an oyster bed,".

These amendments relate to aquaculture licences, which I have spoken about previously. I am keen to ensure that oyster fisheries be included in this section. It is unfortunate that this legislation neglects to refer to the protection of wild oyster beds. I hope these amendments will be accepted. The Fisheries (Amendment) Act 1997, which states that an aquaculture licence should not interfere with oyster beds, is the only protection given to wild oyster beds in the Republic. I am not sure why this protection is not included in the Bill. Wild oyster fisheries provide employment. Careers in this area have been handed down through the generations. I was disappointed with the response to this amendment on Committee Stage, when the Minister, Deputy Noel Dempsey, said that "oyster fisheries in Lough Foyle are public fisheries — they are not owned by any individual or body" and, therefore, "it is not necessary to seek consent". It may not be necessary to hold discussions with the parties involved in this area. It is shocking simply to ignore the many years of hard work done by fishermen in Lough Foyle to develop the oyster fisheries there. This issue affects those who work in the mussel, oyster and salmon fisheries. There is a great deal of uncertainty within the industry.

I fully recognise that this Bill forms part of the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement. However, I have referred to many issues that cannot be ignored. When one examines the development of the industry over recent years, it is obvious that a great deal of funding has been allocated to it. Updating of the relevant legislation has also played a part in the satisfactory development of the sector. The lack of development of the State's inland fisheries over the years contrasts with the astute management in this area. It is clear that great progress has been made with wild aquaculture and farm aquaculture. This Bill will regulate aquaculture to a fair degree. There is a great deal of uncertainty in the industry. While I do not doubt what the Minister of State has said, it is important that assurances are adhered to in line with the spirit of the Bill. The degree of credibility that will attach to the board will depend on the people who are appointed to it by the Minister. The public will be reassured by the level of transparency and consultation with the stakeholders. I have no doubt the tenure and investment of the licence holders in the past will be taken on board in the future issuing of licences to them and new entrants. It is possible there will not be many new entrants; it will probably be the same stakeholders.

The Minister has been frank that this does not encompass everything but I believe he is taking account of the concerns of people who have invested heavily up to now. It is regrettable there was not more public consultation about this Bill. People might have been given a level of reassurance they have not received to date.

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