John Perry
Question:292 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the plans he has for recreational marine activity, including lake angling and those operating angling cruises. [31536/04]
View answerTuesday, 30 November 2004
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Written answers
The Department contributes to the development of marine tourism and recreation through the activities of the Marine Institute, which undertakes a programme of research and development in the marine tourism and leisure sector and the regional fisheries boards responsible for the development of all types of recreational angling. The Marine Institute works closely with the sector to disseminate its findings and to give advice and support. The regional fisheries boards invest considerable resources to encourage, promote, market and develop all types of recreational angling through their activities including the provision of facilities and amenities where they think fit.
The Department has a particular role relating to statutory permissions and safety regulation that impact on marine leisure activities, which are kept under continuous review. Changes to this approach in the future will be informed by the recommendations arising from the development of the national Marine Research and Innovation Strategy 2005-2010, which will address, inter alia, marine tourism and leisure, and the ongoing independent review of the inland fisheries sector, which is examining the structures that deliver services, including angling development.