Seanad debates

Thursday, 10 April 2014

Adjournment Matters

Seaweed Harvesting Licences

12:55 pm

Photo of Kathleen LynchKathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator for raising this matter which I am taking on behalf of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government. The Department plays a role in regulating the harvesting of wild seaweed and it is necessary to ensure that this valuable resource is managed appropriately both to ensure it remains sustainable and that the marine environment is protected.

The Foreshore Act 1933 prohibits the removal of beach material from any area of the foreshore. The definition of "beach material" in the Act includes seaweed whether growing or rooted on the seashore, or deposited or washed up by the action of tides, winds or waves. Seaweed that has been washed above the high water mark no longer belongs to the State. Under the Act, individuals or companies seeking to harvest wild seaweed from the foreshore require a foreshore licence from the Department. The legislative requirement to hold a foreshore licence for seaweed harvesting has existed since the enactment of the Foreshore Act in 1933.

I understand, however, that folio rights also may exist in certain cases and that deeds to privately-owned land adjacent to the foreshore may in some instances grant limited harvesting rights. The Department is seeking advice on how such rights interact with the legislation. It is worth clarifying, however, that the vast majority of foreshore is owned by the State and that continuing access to the foreshore by individuals does not lead to any ownership rights. While private individuals may have been taking seaweed in small quantities for personal use, harvesting large quantities which might damage the seaweed crop in a particular area or have adverse effects on the marine environment, is something that Ireland needs to avoid.

Seaweed is a valuable resource and, in recent years, has become a growth industry. Seaweed is now also being used as an ingredient in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, fertilisers, organic food and animal health supplements. A number of foreshore licence applications for seaweed harvesting have been received by the Department and are currently under assessment. These applications vary considerably and are made by both individual and commercial harvesters. All foreshore licence applications are subject to a public consultation process and any person may submit comments to the Department.

As well as being an economic resource, it should be remembered that living seaweed acts as an important habitat for marine and coastal species, and can provide spawning and nursery grounds for many species.

Applications are therefore assessed in the context of the relevant regulatory framework, including any nature conservation obligations. The Minister is acutely aware of the need to prevent the over-exploitation of this valuable resource. The regulation of seaweed harvesting under the Foreshore Act facilitates the sustainable management of the resource.

Ireland's foreshore is a national asset and it is essential that seaweed harvesting on the foreshore is cognisant of the need to protect the foreshore for present and future generations. The sustainable management of Ireland's wild seaweed resources is the focus of the Department's efforts in licensing this activity.

The specific issue of seaweed harvesting licensing is currently under review in the context of the forthcoming marine area and foreshore (amendment) Bill. The issues raised today will form part of that review. While I have provided some answers for the Senator, there are also a few things about which we will need to get further information in order to have them clarified.

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