Michael Ring
Question:86 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will give details of the proposed leasing of a river (details supplied) in County Mayo by the Central Fisheries Board. [19569/97]
Written Answers. - Fishing Rights.
It has been established that the fishery in question is vested in the Land Commission. Land Commission fisheries are directly managed by the Central Fisheries Board.
It is the practice of the board to advertise fishing rights on such fisheries and to invite bids by way of sealed tender. The fishing rights in question have been included in a recent advertisement by the board of a number of such fisheries around the country. It is open to any interested party to bid under the tendering process which closes on Friday, 21 November.
I am aware of the concerns expressed to the CFB by and on behalf of local anglers about continued access to fisheries on the river in question. The CFB has confirmed its commitment to ensuring continued angling access for local and visiting anglers on fisheries licensed by tender and that this factor will be duly taken into account under the tender process. I will, however, arrange for the Deputy's concerns to be brought again to the attention of the CFB before any decisions are made.