Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 September 2015
1560. Deputy Eamonn Maloney asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps being taken to address the declining fishing stocks, incidents of pollution and destruction of fish habitats under the control of Inland Fisheries Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32174/15]
View answerThe principal functions of Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) are the protection, conservation development and promotion of the inland fisheries and sea angling resource. IFI continually adapts operational practices to maximise the return on state investment in delivering on these core functions.
IFI delivers a wide ranging inland national fisheries protection strategy including operation of a fleet of protection vessels around the coast and the deployment of trained, skilled and experienced inland fishery protection and surveillance teams on a 24 hour, 365 day basis throughout the country. Inland patrols and patrols at sea resulted in over 355 nets, measuring over 17,000 metres, being seized in 2014. A range of illegal fishing gear is continually being seized including rods, dinghies and other equipment as well as quantities of fish.
IFI endeavours to maximise efficiencies through implementation of joint state agency actions and initiatives including patrols with the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority, the Irish Air Corps and environmental inspections with a range of State agencies, including the EPA, Irish Water and Local Authorities, with a remit in the protection of the aquatic environment. The implementation of proven traditional work practices and the increasing use of modern technology and innovative specialist vehicle and water based patrols, dog assisted patrolling and improved water quality monitoring equipment have delivered significant efficiencies over the five years since IFI’s establishment.
IFI also seeks, insofar as possible, to address water quality and habitat issues without relying on legal action, as part of its outreach and information activities. However, in circumstances of serious damage to fish life and habitat, IFI will in accordance with its statutory remit use the full range of legal powers available to it including prosecution where considered appropriate.
It is the policy of IFI to initiate a prosecution where a fish kill occurs and the source of the kill is identified. The Deputy will recall a major fish kill occurred on the River Dodder, Co. Dublin in March 2013 resulting in fish mortalities over a 2 km area. Subsequent IFI investigation determined that some of 3,000 fish had been killed. The investigation led to a conviction and fine in the District Court
IFI’s remit and associated operations are part of the State’s important environmental activities; its role is broad and wide ranging. If the Deputy has a particular issue in mind or would like to avail of a more detailed briefing I would be happy to arrange that with IFI.
