I propose to take Questions Nos. 334 to 336, inclusive, together.
The most comprehensive study of the recreational angling sector ever undertaken was carried out by Tourism Development Ireland (TDI) on behalf of Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). I am advised that TDI is a renowned and widely respected professional consultancy company with a global presence. TDI have been commissioned internationally by such clients as the United Nations, the European Union, the World Bank, the World Tourism Organisation, the Irish American Cultural Institute and a range of multinational companies. Government Departments and Agencies from EU Member States and from countries worldwide have also engaged TDI for expert advice and analysis. In Ireland, TDI has carried out work for the Marine Institute, Failte Ireland, Udaras na Gaeltacht as well as a host of Local Authorities and regional organisations. In the Northern Ireland and cross border context its clients include Waterways Ireland, Tourism Ireland, Northern Ireland Tourist Board and the Loughs Agency.
The principal results of the professional and wide-ranging study of Ireland’s recreational angling sector, which was published in July 2013, estimate that recreational angling in Ireland contributes €755 million to the Irish economy and supports in excess of 10,000 jobs in peripheral and rural areas. I am advised that the results in this report are based on sound economic principles and have been peer reviewed before publication. IFI have confirmed that the Deputy is correct that 19,899 salmon licenses were sold in 2011. However, it is important to be cognisant of the specific question asked in the published survey, as well as the incidence of targeting multiple species.
At no point does this study reference a specific monetary value for any individual species. I understand that there has been comment attributed to a UK based website on the published study. IFI advise that having examined the figures put forward in that comment, it appears that the estimated maximum participation values for one species were erroneously mixed and inappropriately extrapolated with average spend figures for all species which unfortunately underpin a complete misunderstanding of the study’s findings. I have arranged for a copy of the study to be provided to the Deputy to afford him an opportunity to review it fully and would be happy to arrange a full briefing with IFI personnel.
