John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 879: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the situation regarding licences for farming oysters on Lough Swilly; when oyster farmers at Lough Swilly will finally be granted licences to farm oysters on the lake; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29470/06]

John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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Some years ago concerns were communicated to the Department that parts of areas licensed for the bottom cultivation of mussels in Lough Swilly overlapped with wild-oyster beds in the Lough. Arising from these concerns, a comprehensive survey of the wild-oyster beds in the Lough was carried out, in conjunction with wild fisheries interests. The results of the survey indicated that there was a minor degree of overlap between oyster beds and the sites licensed for mussel cultivation. In light of these results and following consultation with the licence holders, arrangements were made to have the mussel seed removed from the areas of overlap on a voluntary basis. Any oysters retrieved during this process were re-laid. An application from the wild-oyster association for a licence to cultivate oysters in the Lough is under consideration by the Department. Officials of the Department have met representatives of the association and advised them as to the further information required to allow consideration of their application to be progressed. Some of the additional information has been received and it is expected that the outstanding issues can be resolved without undue delay.