Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I rise this morning to talk about the aquaculture industry and licences therefor. Both the Leader and the Cathaoirleach are very much aware of the issue. I am concerned about where we are going and how we are policing aquaculture licences, the regulations and legal rights allowing people to get involved in the process. The industry will be a driver of the economy but we must ensure that the proper locations are identified for it. We must bring people with us. There must be consultation and informed debate about what it will mean for the marine area and marine users. It is important that the Minister would come to the House at some stage to outline his view regarding those issues. There is a proposal in Kinsale at the moment for an extensive mussel farm.