§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the environmental impact of shellfish cultivation in Larne lough; and what action he has taken to ensure that the objectives set out in the draft conservation plan for Larne lough special protection area. [4798]
§ Mr. MossBefore issuing licences for shellfish farming, the Department of Agriculture consults the Department of the Environment to establish whether the proposals would have a detrimental environmental effect. The Department of the Environment considers the proposals in the context of the information that it holds on the flora and fauna of the littoral and sub-tidal habitats and any other plans or proposals for the area. Both Departments also consider any risk arising from the introduction of non-native species. In addition to the steps outlined above, the Department of the Environment will 799W monitor bird populations and marine and coastal habitats, to assess whether changes of conservation significance are taking place in the lough.
§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many licences for shellfish cultivation in Larne lough(a) have been granted and (b) are currently under consideration. [4797]
§ Mr. AncramTwo fish culture licences have been granted in respect of shellfish cultivation in Larne lough and two applications for licenses for shellfish farming in the lough are currently under consideration.