Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 13 Feb 1990

Vol. 395 No. 6

Written Answers. - Policing of Lakes and Rivers.

Gerry Reynolds

Question:

22 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the unprecedented amount of poaching of lakes and rivers which is taking place, especially in Counties Leitrim, Cavan, Monaghan and Sligo; and if adequate funding will be provided in order that lakes and rivers in these counties are properly policed.

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Wilson)

Statutory responsibility for the protection of rivers and lakes from the depredations of poaching is vested in the seven regional fisheries boards. While none of these boards would accept that an unprecedented level of poaching exists at present, there is a recognition that in certain Border county areas, coarse fish stocks are coming under growing threat from the activities of poachers who have established lucrative outlets abroad for species such as perch and bream.

The regional fisheries boards are keenly aware of the importance of preventing poaching and have given as much attention as possible to tackling the problem over the years. Additional equipment was recently purchased which should assist the boards' staff in providing a more effective service in this area. My Department will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that optimum use is made of available resources in this regard.

Finally, I would urge all concerned citizens to increase their vigilance where possible and to report all identified incidents of night poaching to the authorities. An increased level of assistance from this source would form an important and valued part of the boards' drive to combat the problem.