Urgent Overhaul of Licensing Should Be National Priority – IFA Aquaculture

IFA Aquaculture has called on the Government to urgently reform and modernise the aquaculture licensing system to unlock the full potential of the sector for coastal communities, food security, and sustainable economic growth.

Addressing the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Fisheries and Maritime Affairs this morning, IFA Aquaculture Chair Finian O’Sullivan said that while Irish aquaculture provides thousands of jobs and delivers significant economic value, its growth is being held back by licensing delays, outdated legislation, and barriers to investment.

“Aquaculture is a cornerstone of Ireland’s coastal economy, supporting coastal communities and providing jobs directly and indirectly. But progress is being strangled by a licensing system that is no longer fit for purpose. Some renewals have been waiting up to 20 years, which is completely unacceptable if we are serious about sustainable food production and rural employment.”

The Irish aquaculture industry produces 38,500 tonnes annually, valued at €211m, providing essential employment opportunities for rural coastal communities with almost 2,000 direct jobs and over 15,000 indirect jobs in seafood processing and marine ancillary services sectors. Gross Value Added (GVA) to the Irish economy in 2024 was estimated at €73m.

With reform and investment, the IFA estimates the sector could generate significant investment opportunities in combined direct and indirect value, creating hundreds of new jobs in coastal and island communities.

“This is a sector with enormous potential. With the right policy and legislative framework, we can significantly increase its value to the economy and deliver real benefits for rural Ireland,” Mr O’Sullivan said.

IFA Aquaculture has urged the Government to introduce a single piece of legislation to replace the current patchwork of laws and regulations governing Irish aquaculture. This would underpin a clear, efficient, and transparent framework for sustainable aquaculture development.

“It is now critical that a single Aquaculture Act is brought forward to bring together all existing laws and provide certainty for farmers, investors, and communities. This must be a national priority for Minister Dooley and his Department.”

IFA Aquaculture concluded that reform must be made a national priority if Ireland is to achieve the targets of the National Strategic Plan for Sustainable Aquaculture Development 2030 and the Seafood Development Programme 2021–2027.