Advance fish farm plan welcomed by IFA chief

THE Irish Farmers’ Association President, John Bryan, has welcomed the announcement by Minister Coveney of an innovative plan to set up an IDA-style “advance fish farm” site off the west coast to attract investment and create up to 500 jobs in the coastal community.

Mr Bryan said: “Aquaculture in Ireland has huge potential for development, exports and job creation, but has been hindered by EU directives and national bureaucracy which has seen the licensing system come to a virtual full stop. The industry welcomes the new approach whereby the state is applying for the licence, ensuring all legal and environmental concerns are addressed, and then franchising the operation to a successful bidder under a contract ensuring the highest standards are maintained.”

The IFA president added: “The biggest frustration for IFA members right around the coast has been that under the stalled licensing system, they are not allowed to produce what the market demands.”