asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if he will give control of environmental protection of our lakes and rivers to the regional fisheries boards so as to ensure independent authority on the question of pollution from that of the local authorities who at present act in the dual role of providing infrastructural services and also environmental control.
Written Answers. - Environmental Protection.
101.
The question of environmental protection is primarily a matter for the Minister for the Environment. Under the Fisheries Acts the regional fisheries boards have responsibility for the protection, management and development of inland fisheries including the protection of these fishing waters from pollution. I am satisfied that the boards have adequate powers under the existing legislation to perform these functions.