Aquaculture licence backlog numbers 521

THERE are 521 aquaculture licence applications awaiting determination, consisting of 271 applications for first-time licences and 250 renewal applications.

The backlog of new and renewal applications exists because most areas for which licences are sought are designated special areas of conservation, under the EU Habitats’ Directive, and/or special protection areas, under the EU Birds’ Directive (Natura 2000 sites), said Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith.

He said: “In the case of aquaculture sites located within Natura 2000 areas, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, in conjunction with the Marine Institute and the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, is engaged in a comprehensive programme to gather the necessary, baseline data appropriate to the conservation objectives of these areas.