THERE is a huge sense of relief in west Donegal following the withdrawal of aquaculture licences for oyster farming.
The licences for Braade Strand between Ranafast and Carrickfinn, previously granted by the Minister for the Marine, have now been rescinded following an appeals process.
There was huge opposition to the expansion of oyster farming in the area and hundreds of people turned out to protest when the plans first emerged. Well known figures such as singer Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, Daniel O’Donnell and actor Stephen Rea lent their support to the campaign.
Following the announcement from the Aquaculture Licences Appeals Board that the licences have been rescinded, campaign group Coiste Timpeallachta an Ghaoith thanked everyone who has contributed to the long running campaign.
“11 licences in total were granted in 2016 but after an appeal by Coiste Timpeallachta an Ghaoith and other groups, all 11 licences have now been rescinded by the Aquaculture Licences Appeals Board,” said a spokesperson for the group.
“Coiste Timpeallachta an Ghaoith would like to convey our huge gratitude to all those who contributed to this campaign to oppose the above-mentioned licences, so that our beaches and natural resources be protected and preserved for future generations.”
The Carrickfinn Trust, a charity dedicated to protecting the special area of conservation, said: “There is already a substantial aquaculture development on Braade Strand and any further expansion would have been detrimental to the environment on many counts.
“We’ll continue to do our best to maintain the exceptional ecology and landscape of our beautiful area.”
In their determination order the appeals board said they could not rule out potential significant adverse impacts resulting from the proposed oyster farming activity in respect of the nearby special protection areas (SPAs).
In particular they were concerned about the Common Gull of West Donegal Islands and the Lesser Black-based Gull.
“The proposed development of aquaculture sites within Gweedore Bay will result in the loss of 58 ha of intertidal habitats,” the report stated.
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