John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)

Oyster fisheries in Lough Foyle are public fisheries. As they are not owned by any individual or body, it is not necessary to seek such consents as requested by Deputy Perry in the amendment. Regional fisheries boards may issue oyster licences in the jurisdiction under the Fisheries (Consolidation) Act 1959. However, this Act does not apply in the Moville area and no such licences have been issued with regard to the Foyle. Oyster fishery orders may be made under the 1959 Act but such orders do not apply in the Moville area.

Wild oyster fisheries will be regulated under section 13 of the 1952 Act if this Bill is enacted. The environmental study will identify the different fisheries and aquaculture interests. The amendment of the definition of "fish" on Committee Stage will greatly facilitate the fair and transparent regulation of aquaculture and fisheries, mussels and oysters, in the interests of all the stakeholders. In these circumstances, the proposed amendments are not necessary.

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