Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In December 2022, I approved the National Strategic Plan for Sustainable Aquaculture Development following a public consultation process and subsequent refinement. The plan establishes a vision for Irish aquaculture up to 2030, which reflects the common direction set out in the EU's strategic guidelines for more sustainable and competitive EU aquaculture for the period. It visualises a sustainable, profitable, competitive, and market-focused aquaculture industry making the maximum long-term economic and social contribution to coastal communities and the country as a whole, while optimising environmental performance and supporting the natural capital upon which it depends. The sector maintains a competitive advantage through low-impact production while building commercial resilience through technical innovation and diversification. This, in turn, supports a more diverse consumer and market base aligned to increased recognition of Irish aquaculture's growing status as a key provider of sustainable, low carbon and healthy food.

To realise our ambitions, four high-level objectives have been established including, first, building the resilience and competitiveness of Irish aquaculture; second, participating in the green transition; third, ensuring social acceptance and consumer information, and; fourth, increasing knowledge and innovation. Under these objectives a total of 58 actions have been developed. These actions include but are not limited to, supporting, for example, the roll-out of a user-friendly online aquaculture licensing and information system, otherwise known as AQUAMIS; supporting the development of designated marine area plans, DMAPs, for the inclusion of aquaculture; increased focus on fish welfare; more vigilant and responsive monitoring of aquatic diseases and food safety risks; supporting innovation; providing co-ordinated messaging on the sustainable, low-carbon nature of Irish aquaculture production; and developing a comprehensive human capacity plan for Irish aquaculture.

The plan has been through a process to ensure it is ready for publication and accessible to all stakeholders. It is due to be brought before the Government and published before the end of the second quarter this year.

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