Salmon Hardship Scheme

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 November 2013

Tuesday, 5 November 2013

Questions (625, 626)

John Halligan

Question:

625. Deputy John Halligan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources further to Parliamentary Question No. 167 of 17 July 2013, in view of the fact that both the eel and salmon fisheries in Ireland were suspended without any form of compensation or diversification being offered which resulted in recent tragedies where affected fishermen were forced to take greater risks making a living at sea in inadequate boats in order to support their families, if he will consider putting in place a set aside payment package for those fishermen interested in continuing to fish and a buyout package for those fishermen who wish to exit the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46736/13]

John Halligan

Question:

626. Deputy John Halligan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his view's that traditional commercial fishing is an important part of the heritage of rural life and is a tradition which stretches back generations over hundreds of years; his views that it is essential that we retain and pass on this heritage which is vital to the conservation of the traditions in rural fishing communities here; if he will consider re-opening the eel commercial fisheries on a pilot scheme as has been done on salmon rivers as a means to preserve these traditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46737/13]

Written answers

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

I propose to take Questions Nos. 625 and 626 together.

I understand that the tragic events referred to by the Deputy are under independent investigation by the Marine Casualty Investigation Board and therefore comment or speculation, including in relation to the cause of the tragedy, from any party while that investigation is ongoing is not appropriate.

I refer to my reply to Question No. 771 of 18 September 2013 which outlined the availability of payments under the Salmon Hardship Scheme. I would also draw the Deputy's attention to my response to Question No. 373 of 24 September 2013 in relation to eels which dealt with matters comprehensively.