Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I hope the Deputy will understand that I am somewhat limited in what I can say in response to his question. It is not worth reading out the official reply because it does not provide any information. I will, however, read out an information note that has been provided. The matter under examination by the European Ombudsman relates to EU pilot case 764/09/ENVI. In this regard, the Department forwarded all relevant material to the European Commission, including material supplied by Inland Fisheries Ireland. In addition, the Commission arranged for Inland Fisheries Ireland to make a direct oral presentation of its position at a meeting with the Commission on 19 December 2011, at which officials from my Department were also present. Following consideration of the scientific facts underpinning the State's control protocols for the management of sea lice, the European Commission closed the case on 11 October 2012. Throughout the process, the Department maintained the closest engagement with the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, the parent Department of Inland Fisheries Ireland. At all times, my Department conducted its activities in an appropriate and efficient manner with due regard for the public interest, which was the Department's primary concern throughout.

It is not appropriate for me to provide any further detail. The Department is preparing a file for consideration by the European Ombudsman and Commission. I am confident both bodies will be satisfied with the file when it is presented. We will have an opportunity to address the issue again when the file has been compiled.

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