Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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486. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to reopen the east coast mussel seed fishery at the earliest possible date and take into consideration the importance of this measure to the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53222/25]

Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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I fully recognise the importance of the Irish Sea mussel seed fishery and of wild mussel seed as raw material for the bottom grown mussel aquaculture sector. These primary producers, in turn, supply the downstream indigenous seafood processing and export industries and help to sustain the livelihoods of coastal communities. The importance of these primary and secondary seafood production activities is reflected in the Food Vision 2030 strategy.

While the opening of the mussel seed fishery is of highest priority, the detection of invasive alien species (IAS), including Crepidula fornicata (slipper limpet) at the Long Bank seed bed off Wexford, has necessitated a precautionary approach under the European Union (Invasive Alien Species) Regulations 2024 (S.I. No. 374 of 2024). This legislation mandates stringent biosecurity measures and risk assessments to prevent the establishment and spread of IAS, which can pose a significant threat to biodiversity and aquaculture operations.

I can inform the Deputy that a risk assessment has been conducted by the IAS and Aquaculture Working Group, which consists of representatives from a number of Departments and State agencies and is facilitated by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM). However, as this is the first recorded instance of Crepidula fornicata in a mussel seed bed in Ireland, supplementary information and clarification have been requested by my Department to ensure the risks are comprehensively assessed and appropriate measures can be taken.

I wish to assure the Deputy that every effort is being made to expedite this process and to address outstanding matters. To that end, my Department is working collaboratively with BIM, the above referenced Working Group, and other agencies on the necessary steps that are required in order to advance all issues in a responsible manner.