Ireland’s aquaculture licensing system could take up to 55 years to clear its current backlog at the present rate of progress, according to the Irish Farmers’ Association.
Speaking at the IFA Aquaculture AGM in Athlone, aquaculture chair Finian O’Sullivan said the sector was facing significant delays and uncertainty due to the pace of licensing decisions.
“IFA Aquaculture has consistently highlighted that considerable investment, and appropriate legislative changes will be required to address the current difficulties in the aquaculture licensing process,” he said.
O’Sullivan said responses to recent parliamentary questions indicated that, at the current rate of progress, it would take decades to resolve outstanding licence applications.
“No sector could accept or sustain such a prospect,” he said.
The IFA said legislative reform is needed to improve certainty for the sector and that it would continue to raise the issue through the Food Vision Seafood Taskforce.
Minister of State for Fisheries Timmy Dooley told the meeting the sector had the potential to remain competitive, citing continued government engagement and investment.
Irish aquaculture is valued at approximately €180 million annually, supporting around 1,800 direct jobs and an estimated 8,500 indirect roles.
The meeting also included an update on the EU co-funded OPTIMA project, which focuses on improving skills, sustainability and cooperation in mollusc aquaculture.
