Vol. 504 No. 7
129 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will consider a moratorium on the commercial long lining for conger eels until a scientific study into their growth rate, distribution and future viability has been conducted, particularly in the Cork harbour area in view of an apparent serious decline in angling catches on the south coast. [13058/99]
In light of concerns expressed by sea anglers about the state of conger eel stocks off the south coast, I am requesting the Marine Institute, the Central Fisheries Board and BIM to undertake a joint assessment of the conger eel fishery and to advise on what future measures might be needed for the conservation, management and sustainable exploitation of the stock. My Department in the meantime will closely monitor the small commercial conger eel fishery during the coming season.
