Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator for raising this issue which I know he has raised previously. I am happy to provide clarification on some of the queries raised by him.

My Department plays a role in regulating the harvesting of wild seaweed. It is necessary to ensure this valuable resource is managed appropriately both to ensure it remains sustainable and that the marine environment is protected.

There are 13 applications for licences to harvest seaweed before my Department under section 3 of the Foreshore Act 1933. Foreshore applications, including those for seaweed harvesting, are dealt with in accordance with a scheme of prioritisation and the scale of applications varies considerably. Even within the category of seaweed harvesting the applications are quite varied, being made by both individual and commercial harvesters. The applications in hand range from very small scale harvesting of niche species to large-scale commercial harvesting.

The applications are at different stages of processing. Some were received very recently and are undergoing preliminary review, while others are at a more advanced stage. Within this overall context, it is not possible to give an accurate indication of when determinations will be made on the outstanding applications. However, I can assure the Senator that all applications are being progressed and will be finalised as soon as possible.

Each application is being assessed in the context of the relevant regulatory framework, including the obligations that arise under the European Union birds and habitats legislation. The process includes a public consultation process and any person can make his or her views known to my Department during the public consultation stage of each application. I urge anyone with an interest to make his or her views known as part of the public consultation processes. All applications, once deemed complete by my Department, will be available to view on the Department's website.

I am sure the Senator will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to comment directly on any specific application that will ultimately come before me for determination. My Department is examining the implications of legal advice received from the Attorney General's office on the interaction of appurtenant rights with the Foreshore Act and the European Communities (Birds and Habitats) Regulations 2011. It is also engaging with the Property Registration Authority to establish the extent of appurtenant or folio rights to harvest seaweed that may apply. I assure the Senator and the House that any established right in law will not be interfered with by my Department if the applications in hand are ultimately approved.

As I have stated previously, the specific issue of licensing wild seaweed harvesting is under review in the context of the forthcoming maritime area and foreshore (amendment) Bill and the advice of the Attorney General's office. Pending publication and enactment of the Bill, my Department will continue to process applications under the provisions of the current Foreshore Act.