Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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452. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to expedite the processing of a licence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31470/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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My Department considers applications for aquaculture and foreshore licences in accordance with the provisions of the Fisheries (Amendment) Act 1997 as amended, the Foreshore Act 1933 (as amended) and applicable national and EU legislation. The licensing process involves consultation with a wide range of scientific and technical advisers as well as various Statutory Consultees. The legislation also provides for a period of public consultation. Decisions in respect of aquaculture licence applications are only taken following the fullest consideration of all consultations and public interest elements of each application, including environmental considerations.

All aquaculture licence applications, including the application referred to by the Deputy, must be both technically assessed and screened for an Appropriate Assessment. My Department’s Marine Engineers have reported on technical matters and the Marine Institute, as my scientific advisors, have been requested to undertake the necessary assessment.

Following receipt of the Appropriate Assessment screening report, my Department will be in contact with the applicant on the next stage of the process.