My name is Kevin Hodnett and I am uniquely placed to assist and guide you along the complex route to securing a successful determination of your application.

I have many years’ experience of working at the highest level in the Aquaculture Licensing Division of The Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine.

I can safely state that I posess un-paralleled knowledge and insight into the aquaculture licensing process.

My experience has routinely brought me into regular and direct contact with all the relevant stakeholders including Industry Representatives, the Marine Institute, Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) , other Departments contributing to the licensing process, all the various Statutory Consultees and several NGOs.

Aquaculture in Ireland requires both an aquaculture and foreshore licence before you can operate – It’s that simple.  Unfortunately, that is where the simplicity ends.

The map that sets out the road to getting your aquaculture licence has numerous signposts and detours.  Securing an aquaculture licence is subject to a myriad of legislation that enables the licence holder to operate while also taking account of necessary measures to  safeguard the environment.

In practise, the legislation seeks to balance the needs of the aquaculture farmer with the need to protect the environment, safeguarding our waters and habitats for future generations.  With proper planning and husbandry, the farmer and the environment can exist in harmony.

The complexity of both the national and European legislation cannot be overstated. Indeed, working to meet the rigorous demands and standards set out is key to a successful aquaculture licence application.