The Aquaculture Licences Appeals Board (ALAB) has upheld an appeal against a decision to grant approval for a salmon-farming licence near one of Ireland's most scenic Blue Flag beaches at Portsalon in Co Donegal.
The board accepted the appellants' contention that the proposed 90-acre operation would have a negative effect on the surrounding environment.
In February a licence was granted to Marine Harvest Limited of Fanad to develop the site, but this was subsequently appealed by the Lough Swilly Preservation Group, the Buncrana Anglers' Association, An Taisce (NW Donegal branch) and three individuals.
The appeals board noted that a deterioration in water quality from the proposed activity could have a negative impact on the recreational use of the nearby beach. There could also be a risk to navigation and the visual impact of the proposed fish farm would conflict with the Donegal County Development Plan which had designated the area as one of special amenity value.
Commenting on the board decision, Mr Tony Morrison, the chairman of the Save the Swilly campaign - which represents 35 groups - reiterated calls for a coastal zone management strategy. "We have consistently argued that there are many stakeholders in Lough Swilly, and that there are options for development that do not intrude on the rights of other users."
He stressed that he is not against fish farms but believes they should not be allowed on the migratory routes of salmonoid species. "Ten years ago we had to put up signs to stop anglers taking more than five fish a day from the Crana river. Today you would be lucky to get five a month," he said.