Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 September 2011
169 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding farmers removing gravel from rivers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25372/11]
View answerI have no remit as regards the undertaking of such works. I understand this is a matter for the landowner and the relevant authorities, including the local authority, in each instance. Similarly Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) has no remit other than how these works impact on fish spawning grounds or fish stocks. It is an offence under section 173 of the Fisheries (Consolidation) Act 1959 to disturb any spawning bed, bank or shallow where the spawn or fry of salmon, trout or eels may be.
