Vol. 505 No. 1
68 Mr. Bradford asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources his views on whether the introduction of by-law 756 by his Department is a cause of serious concern to salmon angling clubs; his further views on correspondence (details supplied) concerning this matter; if he will review the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13075/99]
This year a ban on the use of prawn and shrimp as bait applies to 31 May. The measure has been introduced in the interests of protecting vulnerable spring salmon stocks and as part of stringent conservation measures for salmon generally including restrictions on commercial fishing. I have already received requests to extend the application of this measure to the full season next year.
The ban on prawn and shrimp was one of a number of measures recommended to me following a seminar held in September 1998 to address and advise on measures to tackle the decline in spring salmon stocks. The attendance at the seminar included representatives of a wide spectrum of fishing interests, including anglers.
I have arranged for officials of my Department to meet with representatives of the angling club in question to review salmon conservation generally and to clarify their concerns.
