Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Jan 2000

Vol. 513 No. 1

Written Answers. - Fishing Seasons.

Phil Hogan

Question:

170 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the plans, if any, he has to extend the snap-net fishing season in the Waterford estuary and, in particular, to bring forward the opening date for snap-net fishing from May to February 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1526/00]

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

Last year this fishery enjoyed the longest commercial salmon fishing season in the country. The open season extended from 12 May to 14 August. Fishing was permitted on a four day week, 24 hour basis from 12 May to 11 June and a five day week, 24 hour day basis for the rest of the season. The drift net season generally ran from 1 June to 31 July on a four day week basis during the hours of daylight only. The draft net season generally ran from 12 May to 31 July on a four day week basis. There are no plans to alter the snap net fishing season in the Waterford estuary.

The salmon conservation measures now in place are based on the recommendations of the salmon management task force. At the heart of these measures is the need to ensure that sufficient numbers of fish return to our rivers each year to spawn in the interest of the long-term sustainability of the fisheries. The salmon commission will be reviewing, as part of its remit, conservation and management strategies overall and specific arrangements by sector and area.

Salmon populations remain very vulnerable and therefore it is imperative that the commitment to protection, conservation and management of our salmon fisheries is sustained by everybody involved, be they commercial or angling interests.