Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 February 2026
448. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of aquaculture licence determinations issued by the Department in 2022, 2023 and 2024 respectively; to provide a breakdown of how many of these were new licence applications or licence renewals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15665/26]
View answerMy Department considers all applications for aquaculture licences 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. 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.
The number of aquaculture licence determinations made by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine in 2022, 2023 and 2024 (new and renewals) are provided in the table below:
|
Year |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
|
New applications determined |
34 |
4 |
0 |
|
Renewal applications determined |
3 |
1 |
3
|
