Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 March 2015
930. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding the cleaning of a river in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11709/15]
View answerAt the outset, I would remind the Deputy that when he previously raised this issue my reply did not confirm a start date in March 2015.
Works as referred to by the Deputy are normally undertaken by the relevant Local Authority, in this case Kerry County Council. In relation to such works consultation with Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI), the statutory body charged with ensuring the protection and conservation of the inland fisheries resource and habitats, is normally required to ensure that the works, and timing thereof, is in compliance with Fisheries Legislation and EU obligations. In that regard works should take place outside the salmon spawning season from 1 October to 30 April.
The river in question is important for salmon spawning and given the protected status of salmon under the EU Habitats Directive the focus nationally is to ensure that all rivers are afforded the required protection.
I am advised that IFI met, late last year, with a representative of land owners, and Kerry County Council to agree works on the river in question and that IFI have confirmed to Kerry County Council that 1 May is the earliest the Council should enter the relevant waters.
