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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 Mar 2003

Vol. 562 No. 4

Written Answers - Inland Fisheries.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

157 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the terms of reference of the strategic independent review of the Government's involvement in the inland fisheries sector; the person by whom the review will be carried out; when it is expected to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6255/03]

I recognise that the environment around the inland fisheries sector is changing and that structures need to be adjusted to cope with new circumstances. This calls for a change in emphasis from traditional activities to new thinking and innovative approaches to inland fisheries management in the future.

I have already intimated that I propose to initiate a high level review of the Government's involvement in the inland fisheries sector to consider how best to progress. It is my intention that this review will deliver a root and branch examination of the State's role and objectives in the inland fisheries sector and will take into account various reports and international experience as well as involving widespread consultation.

Improvements are needed and the necessary structures must be in place to deliver in the future. It is clear to me that these structures must ensure that the State-management relationship is such as to be conducive to the development of an inland fisheries sector, which conserves the inland fisheries resource in its own right and its viability and economic and social contribution at national and local community level.

The development of good management and organisational practices must be fostered, which guarantee cost effectiveness and value for money in the delivery of high quality services to stakeholders. I will look to the review to define the interrelationships between the various stakeholders, advise on the appropriate role of the State and make recommendations on the optimum structures for the regulation, management and development of the inland fisheries resource in Ireland.

The report of the Independent Estimates Review Committee to the Minister for Finance endorsed my view in respect of the fisheries boards. It indicated that "There would seem to be scope for rationalising the existing structures of the central and regional fisheries board" and questioned "whether the existing arrangements represent the most efficient means by which the functions in question can be discharged."

I expect the review will appraise and recommend management and ownership options including, for example, enhanced private sector involvement. The review needs to be imaginative in examining proposals, which might include the transfer of non-essential core activities away from the inland fisheries management. I will finalise the terms of reference for the exercise in the coming weeks and have invited those interested to forward their views on those terms for my consideration.

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