A survey of Oysterhaven, Co Cork, for its suitability for shellfish production has been conducted by the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA).
Under EU regulation, there is a requirement for the competent State authority intending to classify a bivalve mollusc production area to conduct a sanitary survey in that area.
This determines the extent to which potential sources of pollution may impact a bivalve mollusc production area.
The results ultimately inform the sampling plan for the National Microbiological Sampling Programme, which is operated by the SFPA, and determine the annual classification for Bivalve Mollusc Production Areas.
The SFPA says it is “dedicated to maintaining the safety and quality of shellfish production by conducting ongoing shellfish monitoring programs and sanitary surveys to classify production areas”.
The SFPA also prevents shellfish harvesting from areas with elevated levels of marine biotoxins and phytoplankton to ensure the safety of the product.
“Shellfish monitoring is a critical safety measure for consumers and helps protect the shellfish industry by preventing outbreaks and ensuring that seafood remains safe to eat,”it says.
Further details on the SFPA’s work on sanitary surveys can be accessed here
The Oysterhaven Sanitary Survey can be accessed here
