Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 November 2004
136 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the reason the application forms for salmon fisherman in the matter of salmon fishing licences are later then usual in 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30830/04]
View answer137 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he intends to amend the Control of Fishing for Salmon Order 1980; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30831/04]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 136 and 137 together.
Over the last two years, a sub-group of the National Salmon Commission has been comprehensively reviewing the provisions of the Control of Fishing for Salmon Order 1980 and subsequent amendments. The recommendations made by the sub-group were examined this year by a joint National Salmon Commission-National Fisheries Management Executive Working Group chaired by the Department. Arising out of this process, a number of practicable amendments to the orders have been identified with a view to updating and improving the qualifying criteria under which licence applications would be prioritised and assessed by the regional fisheries boards.
A draft order, incorporating the proposed amendments, has been referred to the Attorney General's office for legal advice on their applicability. It is my intention that the final draft will then revert to the National Salmon Commission for their endorsement, following consultation with the stakeholders whom they represent, before implementing any changes to the orders.
Given that the commercial salmon fishing season does not start until early April each year, the joint working group recommended that it was no longer necessary to retain 30 November immediately preceding the start of the season as the closing date for receipt of licence applications. The joint working group recommended that the closing date should be deferred to 31 January preceding the fishing season. This will allow the fisheries boards more time to put in place the annual administrative arrangements for salmon fishing licensing as well as removing the onus on fishermen to lodge their licence applications so far in advance of the start of the salmon fishing season.
I can confirm for the Deputy that on 17 November last, I signed the necessary orders to amend the closing date. This later closing date will allow additional time for the other suggested amendments to the control of fishing for salmon orders to be fully considered in advance of their implementation.
