Gerry Reynolds
Question:49 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he proposes to carry out research into the levels of fish stocks on the Shannon system and the gradual decline of eels and salmon. [10721/02]
Written Answers. - Fisheries Protection.
Gerry Reynolds
Question:50 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the function of the board of the ESB and the structure, administration and accountability under the terms of Shannon Fisheries Act, 1938; whether there is complacency in relation to the fishery and the obligation to show an annual breakdown of operation costs in the years 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001; and if he proposes to set up a board of inquiry to investigate its fishery operation. [10722/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 49 and 50 together.
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Questions Nos. 108 and 114 on 26 March 2002, in which I outlined the provisions of the applicable legislation regarding the statutory duty and accountability of the ESB in regard to the Shannon fisheries. I have also previously informed the House that my Department has drawn the ESB's attention to its obligations in relation to accounts. The ESB fisheries conservation annual report for the year ending April 2000 does include turnover, expenditure and net loss figures which have been extracted from the financial statements of the ESB for the year ended 31 December 1999. On receipt of the report, which I have requested from the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board in regard to the Shannon fisheries, I will communicate further with the Deputy.