Mairéad Farrell (Galway West, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

1393. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the legal questions regarding the future licensing of salmonid hatcheries within the jurisdiction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [58962/25]

Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My Department considers all applications for aquaculture licences, including those for salmon hatcheries, in accordance with the provisions of the 1997 Fisheries (Amendment) Act, the 1933 Foreshore Act and applicable national and EU legislation. The licensing process is complex and 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.

In addition to taking full account of all National and EU legislative requirements, the assessment process reflects the full scientific, environmental, legal, public policy and engineering aspects of each application, including the specific production system proposed in each case. 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.

It is a matter for each individual applicant to determine the precise production system they wish to apply for. From a licensing perspective my Department does not adopt a predisposition in respect of proposed production systems, and assesses each application on its merits and by reference to applicable legislation.