Fishing Industry

Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Ceisteanna (892)

Michael Cahill

Ceist:

892. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a mussel seed fishery will be opened (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9826/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine

I wish to assure the Deputy that I fully recognise wild mussel seed as an important resource for the bottom-grown mussel sector.

As the Deputy may be aware, during routine surveying and screening work on the mussel seed beds off Wexford in 2025, a single juvenile Slipper Limpet (Crepidula Fornicata) was found, and several specimens of Japanese Wireweed (Sargassum Muticum) were identified at the Long Bank mussel seed bed. Both species are listed as being of national concern in the European Union (Invasive Alien Species) Regulations 2024 (Statutory Instrument No. 374 of 2024), which has been in place since July 2024, and are subject to very strict controls. The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage holds primary responsibility for the implementation of this legislation.

I opened the 2025 mussel seed fishery in the Rusk Channel in November last, as no invasive alien species were found in this seedbed.

I wish to assure you that every effort continues to be made to resolve outstanding issues in relation to the Long Bank mussel seedbed as expeditiously as possible. Updates will continue to be communicated to industry through the Bottom Grown Mussel Consultative Forum, with further information to be provided ahead of the next suitable tide on 25th February.