Vol. 493 No. 3
153 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the plans, if any, he has to meet jointly or separately, with the representatives of the various interests in the area of salmon fishing, with a view to reaching a resolution to the dispute that is threatening over the issue of driftnetting in the months of August; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16156/98]
I have already had meetings with representatives of the Irish Fishermen's Organisation at their request for a relaxation of the ban on driftnetting in the month of August. I have also facilitated meetings with other groups to clarify the present situation, and will continue to do so.
The current restrictions on the commercial and recreational salmon fishing season are a key element in my strategy to conserve and achieve a recovery in salmon stocks from the current low levels. I would look to all fishermen to play their part in ensuring that the conservation and protection measures now in place are fully respected in the interests of the long-term sustainable development of the sector for all legitimate salmon interests.
