A group of locals in Dungloe are planning to protest against proposed Oyster Farms on inner Dungloe Bay.
Plans for large-scale farms have been met with strong opposition from a number of local residents who worry about the negative impact of the projects. A demonstration has been planned at Dungloe Pier this Tuesday evening.
The applications could see the inner Dungloe Bay become the site of a major oyster production project.
Licence applications from one company propose the addition of up to 30,000 trestles and approx 100,000 bags at the inner bay sites. Dungloe Bay is seen as a good location for aquaculture due to the good shelter and firm substrate.
Local residents have expressed fears that the oyster farms would impact on views at Dungloe Bay and prevent access to public amenities. They fear the farms would lead to overpopulation of the bay and affect tourism.
“Dungloe Bay is one of the nicest natural amenities we have. Our Bay is too important to the town and beyond,” said a campaign spokesperson.
As of May 2019, there were 14 applications for Aquaculture/Foreshore licences at the Public Notice phase in Dungloe Bay. The protest group say they are objecting to five of these.
“We are only objecting to oyster beds in the Inner Dungloe Bay.
“We fully support the oyster business in the area as it is a great source of employment in the Rosses,” the spokesperson said.
As the closing date for objections draws near, a demonstration is due to be held at Dungloe pier on Tuesday evening 25th June at 7.30pm. A petition for objections will be in circulation at the event.
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