62 Mr. Garland asked the Minister for the Marine the numbers he employs to monitor the effects and practices of the aquaculture sector; the qualifications held by those involved; the facilities they have at their disposal; where they are based; the frequency of the monitoring; and other information which is relevant to the issue.

A programme of monitoring and inspection of aquaculture installations is carried out by the professional services of my Department, i.e. the Fisheries Research Centre and Engineering Division. In addition, inspections are undertaken as necessary by sea fisheries and fish quality officers based in the regions.