Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 10 Feb 2000

Vol. 514 No. 2

Written Answers. - Inland Fisheries.

Willie Penrose

Question:

67 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if, further to Parliamentary Question No. 86 of 20 October 1999, he will give details of the Central Fisheries Board's decision in relation to the introduction of triploids to Lough Owel, Mullingar, County Westmeath; his views on the desirability and importance of the introduction of triploids to theses lakes in view of the fact that their introduction would be important to boost tourism in the midlands area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3891/00]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Fahey)

I am advised by the Central Fisheries Board, which leases the lake from the ESB, that a proposal was received from local angling interests for the introduction of triploid rainbow trout to Lough Owel. Following assessment of the proposal the CFB has recommended against the introduction of rainbow trout because of the potential negative impact on the valuable indigenous brown trout stocks.

Lough Owel is a proposed special area of conservation under the Habitats Directive and Dúchas also expressed concerns to the Central Board on the potential impact of the triploid rainbows on the natural ecology of the lake. The decision of the CFB which is based on the precautionary principle, takes into account the views of Dúchas as well as its own internal advice.