Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Feb 1999

Vol. 500 No. 7

Written Answers. - Salmon Fisheries.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

122 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the proposals, if any, for a buy out scheme for salmon fishermen on the River Suir and on the Suir estuary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5057/99]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Dr. Woods)

There are no proposals currently for the State to permanently buy-out salmon fishermen on the River Suir or the Suir Estuary or elsewhere.

I have however provided funding of £200,000 in 1999 for a pilot scheme which will assist specific projects, in catchment areas where salmon stocks are under particular pressure, designed to encourage reductions this year in commercial salmon netting. The precise criteria which will apply to the pilot scheme are being developed at present which will inform and assist the regional fisheries boards in developing possible projects under the scheme in consultation with all relevant interests.