Aquaculture licences difficult to get

AQUACULTURE licence applications in the years 2003 to 2008 totalled 233, but only 149 were granted, according to figures given by Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Brendan Smith in the Dáil.

There were 26 applications in 2008, but only one licence was granted. “The reduction in the number of new licences issued in 2008 arises from the need for full compliance with the requirements of EU legislation and in particular the EU Habitats and Birds Directives,” said Mr Smith, replying to a Dáil question from Deputy Jan O’Sullivan.

“Reaching early agreement with the EU Commission on how to enable licences to be issued in Natura 2000 sites in compliance with the Birds and Habitats Directives is a very high priority for my Department,” said the minister.