Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael)
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Question 550: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the average waiting time for those seeking to obtain a foreshore licence; the way that these applications are categorised and prioritised; his views on whether certain categories need to have a higher level of importance attached; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27418/11]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Following the enactment of the Foreshore and Dumping at Sea (Amendment) Act 2009 and the Foreshore (Amendment) Act 2011, responsibility for certain foreshore licensing functions was transferred to the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government.

My Department has retained responsibility for foreshore licensing functions in respect of designated harbour centres, activities wholly or primarily for the use, development or support of aquaculture, and activities which are wholly or primarily for the use, development, or support of sea-fishing. All other foreshore licensing functions are now the responsibility of the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government.

All applications received are referred to my Department's scientific/technical advisors in the first instance. Waiting times for applications for foreshore licences vary depending on issues such as the nature and complexity of the proposal which is the subject of the application which in turn impacts on the duration of this assessment process. The number and complexity of submissions received on foot of the public consultation process is another factor which can affect the waiting time. Applications received can range from applications for site investigations to, for example, construction of large piers intended wholly or primarily for fishery related activity. Given the diverse nature of applications received it is not considered that an overall average waiting time for applications would be particularly relevant. While applications are not formally categorised, applications are examined on a case by case basis, and priority is given to proposals which are of significant economic, or social importance.