Pat Gallagher (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

181. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when the recommendations of the review of the aquaculture licence will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51386/17]

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

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 as well as 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.