Vol. 501 No. 4
69 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if the 1999 salmon fishing season for River Slaney draft net fishermen will end on 31 August 1999 as was the case in 1998; if a new management plan for the Slaney is being considered; if so, if draft net fishermen will be consulted in that regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6337/99]
As part of my conservation measures for 1999 to protect vulnerable salmon stocks, I have indicated my intention to close the salmon draft net season nationally on 31 July 1999.
I have not received proposals to date for a new management plan for the Slaney river but when I announced on 7 February salmon conservation proposals for this year, I indicated that where commercial fishermen and anglers come together to agree a management plan for specific catchments, I would be prepared to consider extending the season in those areas in the context of such proposals for a plan based on full consensus.
Any proposals for new management plans for the Slaney or elsewhere will require the fullest consultation with all interested parties including draft net fishermen.
