Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 November 2014
1077. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources to explain the position regarding the cleaning of a stream (details supplied) in County Kerry; if his Department will allow the work to go ahead; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41597/14]
View answerI am advised that matters relating to cleaning of a river or stream is an issue for the relevant Local Authority. In that context, consultation with Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) is normally undertaken by the Local Authority. IFI is the statutory body charged with ensuring the protection and conservation of our fisheries resource and habitats. I am advised that IFI met with a representative of land owners, and Kerry County Council to agree works on the Gowlane Stream which enters Lough Gill at Castlegregory. The works were to be completed by 1st October. IFI also agreed to revisit the site and review works from the fisheries perspective to assist the landowner and Local Authority before they started.
The local authority reverted to IFI on the 15th October to say they intended starting the works on 20th October. However 1st October is the final date for completion of works agreed with all landowners, Local Authorities and the Office of Public Works throughout Kerry to ensure their compliance with Fisheries Legislation. I am advised that the proposed works will now take place in Spring 2015.
I understand that stream clearance in this area is an on-going issue and IFI have provided guidance to responsible bodies on proposed programmes.
