asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if any applications have been made to him for fish culture licences for Mulroy Bay, County Donegal; and if he will take into consideration the potential for the development of scallops in Mulroy Bay before issuing any such licences.

A number of applications relating to fish-farming in Mulroy Bay have been received by my Department. The potential for development of Mulroy Bay, particularly with regard to scallop cultivation, is a matter which is currently being assessed by my Department in co-operation with local interested parties, and any licences to be issued will only be granted on the basis of the best available scientific data.

In view of the great potential of scallop development, fish culture and tourism at Mulroy Bay, would the Minister, when issuing licences, take into account the question of pollution? Would he consider the feasibility of setting up a State-sponsored body to monitor the overall development of this bay?

The answer to the second part of the Deputy's question is that it is being examined. The answer to the first part of the question is yes. The Department are arranging an open forum and exhibition on 13 March in the Mulroy Bay area and all locals are being invited to the discussion.

Did the Minister say that no licences had been granted for fish farming in Mulroy Bay?

Yes.

Is the Minister aware that salmon cages this week are being erected in Mulroy Bay? How is this happening if no licences have been issued?

There are six applications for oyster and mussel fishery orders outstanding under the Fisheries (Consolidation) Act, 1959. There are two applications for fish culture licences for the rearing of scallops from the North Water Co-operative and Mulroy Bay Shell Fish Limited, The Quay, Milford.

Is the Minister aware that salmon cages are being erected this week in Mulroy Bay without licences?

Only one licence ——

The Minister said no licence had been issued.

I said a number of applications were being considered but only one licence has been issued to date — to Mr. Haggen, Donegal Trout Farm.

Why did the Minister say no licences had been issued?

Question No. 10.

I want to ask a very important question with regard to Mulroy Bay. Is the Minister aware that the effluent in Mulroy Bay is detrimental to the very valuable scallop beds?

I have called question No. 10.