Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
819. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to provide an update regarding the opening of the Long Bank Mussel Seed Bed (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14297/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing the opening of the Rusk Channel mussel seed fishery last November, I am pleased to confirm the opening of the Long Bank mussel seed fishery, also off Wexford, from the next suitable tide commencing on 25 February. The Sea-Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction (Mussel Seed) (Opening of Fisheries) Regulations 2025 (S.I. No. 538 of 2025), allow for mussel seed fishing to 29 March 2026.
I can advise the Deputy that a communication regarding my decision to open the Long Bank was issued to members of the Bottom Grown Mussel Consultative Forum (BGMCF) on 20 February, to allow the bottom grown mussel industry to prepare for the opening of the fishery. I would like to acknowledge the understanding shown by industry in relation to the complex issues surrounding this fishery this season and look forward to the successful operation of this fishery.
