Brian O'Shea
Question:103 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the proposals, if any, he has to alter the salmon fishing season in any way in 2000 or 2001; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18282/00]
Written Answers. - Fisheries Protection.
Salmon conservation and management measures which were in force last year will remain in place given the continued vulnerability of salmon stocks. It remains the case that where commercial netsmen and anglers working with the regional fisheries boards can agree a management plan for specific areas, the possibility of altering the season in those areas will be examined. Furthermore, the National Salmon Commission will be advising on future conservation and management strategies for the salmon resource.
Brian O'Shea
Question:104 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the regulations regarding the length of fishing net which is permitted on different parts of the Irish coast; the proposals, if any, he has to alter the current situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18283/00]
Irish and EU regulations relating to technical conservation specify, among other things, the maximum permitted length of net and minimum mesh sizes for fixed and towed gear. The requirements vary depending on the nature of the fishing activity and the species of fish being targeted. For example, drift nets used for tuna fishing cannot exceed 2.5 km. in length, while a minimum mesh size of 120 mm. applies when fishing for hake with gill nets.
I have already outlined to Commissioner Fischler the need for enhanced EU conservation measures over and above those already in place. Greater protection for undersized and juvenile fish stocks is required. With the support of the Irish fishing industry and backed up by the work of the CFP strategy group on technical conservation, I will continue to press the case in the coming months. In the meantime, ensuring and enforcing compliance with existing conservation measures will continue to be a key priority for the Irish fishery protection service.