Joanna Tuffy (Dublin Mid West, Labour)
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219. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding the problem of sea lice from sea fisheries; if he has considered this issue in relation to his policy and decisions regarding sea farming; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40250/13]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Ireland's sea lice control protocols are operated by the Marine Institute. These protocols are considered to be more advanced than those operated in other jurisdictions for the following reasons:

- The inspection regime is totally independent of the industry.

- Data obtained as a result of inspections is published and made widely available.

- Treatment trigger levels are set at a low level.

In 2008, the State introduced a new Pest Management Strategy, supplementing the control regime already in place. This has resulted in a steady decline in average sea lice numbers on farmed salmon since its inception.

Applications to my Department for licences for the cultivation of marine finfish are considered under the provisions of the 1997 Fisheries (Amendment) Act and the 1933 Foreshore Act. The legislation provides for a period of public consultation. Decisions on licences are only made following the fullest consideration by my Department of all scientific, technical and public policy issues associated with each application, including the control of sea lice.