Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

374. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status and timeframe of the implementation of the recommendations outlined in the independent review of the aquaculture licence process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50862/17]

Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

375. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the way in which his Department is implementing recommendations 8.3(1), 8.3(2), 8.3(3) and 8.3(4) of the review of the aquaculture licence process on public notice; if they are not being progressed, the reason therefor; when they will be progressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50863/17]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 374 and 375 together.

I received the Report of the Independent Aquaculture Licensing Review Group on 31^stMay 2017. The Group’s Report is published and available to view on my Department’s website at www.agriculture.gov.ie/seafood/aquacultureforeshoremanagement/aquaculturelicensing/. The overarching conclusion of the Report is for a root-and-branch reform of the aquaculture licence application processes to take place with a focus on both short-term immediate actions and longer term initiatives. There are a total of 30 recommendations in the Report.

Since receiving the Report my Department has engaged in detailed consideration of all 30 recommendations with a view to preparing a comprehensive implementation plan. This implementation plan will take account of legislative, environmental, technical and public interest issues that have a bearing on the sustainable development of the industry.

My Department’s work on the implementation plan is at a very advanced stage. However, as consideration of all relevant issues remains ongoing it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this time.