Vol. 513 No. 5
35 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the progress, if any, in relation to a submission made by a person (details supplied) concerning the salmon catch in early 1999; if the submission has been examined; and, if so, his views on its content. [2881/00]
The submission to which the Deputy refers comprised a survey of 1998 game angling catches in the southern fisheries region and a motion passed in February 1999 by the Southern Regional Fisheries Board, on foot of that survey proposing that the board introduce a moratorium as commercial salmon fishing during 1999 in the region, with compensation for the netsmen concerned, as well as limits on the take of salmon by anglers.
The necessity for very detailed consultations with all the stakeholders including private fishery owners, angling clubs and the commercial salmon sector on the detail and implications of such a scheme precluded its introduction for the 1999 season. I intend however to refer the proposal to the National Salmon Commission for its consideration and advice. The commission which will be up and running shortly will be statutorily responsible for advising me on salmon conservation protection and development policies and strategies. In the meantime the Department will consult further with the Southern Regional Fisheries Board on the proposed scheme for the region.
