Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent)
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971. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the reason his Department has not yet concluded its investigation into the licence breaches at various salmon farms operated by a company (details supplied); and if this delay is due to the conflict of interest that arises for his Department between the proper regulation of salmon farming and the development of the industry. [24759/18]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy is aware my Department is currently examining possible breaches of licence conditions in respect of a number of aquaculture licences held by the Company referred to by the Deputy. My Department is also examining a possible breach of licence conditions in respect of a licence held by a third party and operated by the Company referred to by the Deputy.

There is always a strict separation between my Department’s regulatory function in respect of aquaculture and its duty to promote the sustainable development of the industry. This separation of duties is strictly observed.

Every effort is being made by my Department to bring these examinations to a conclusion as soon as possible having regard to the complexities involved. As these examinations are part of an ongoing statutory process it would not be appropriate for me to comment further.

Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent)
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972. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if consistent breaches of licence conditions by a salmon farm operator are taken into account by his Department when processing new licence applications from that same operator. [24760/18]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Applications for aquaculture licences are considered by my Department in accordance with the provisions of the 1997 Fisheries (Amendment) Act, the 1933 Foreshore Act and the relevant National and EU legislation. The legislation provides for a period of statutory and public consultation in respect of each application.

Licensing decisions are made following the fullest consideration of all aspects of each application including scientific, technical, legislative and public interest aspects.