Michael Healy-Rae
Question:887. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the status of flooding issues (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46432/15]
View answerWednesday, 13 January 2016
Questions (887, 889)
Michael Healy-Rae
Question:889. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the status of flooding in rural areas and the removal of gravel from rivers (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1072/16]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 887 and 889 together.
There is no prohibition, within the Fisheries Acts, on landowners taking material, including gravel, from rivers. However there are conditions attached to such activity and penalties for their contravention which are set out respectively in sections sections 131 and 173 of the Fisheries Act of 1959. I am advised that, on request from a landowner, Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) will discuss their requirements and/or concerns to assist in seeking to ensure there is no inadvertent contravention of the relevant statutory requirements by any landowner. In this regard a landowner should contact the local IFI Office. I am also advised that there are locations where the requirements of EU Habitats Directive, in respect of certain species and their habitat, would apply and IFI would also be happy to offer guidance on this issue.
It is imperative for the landowner to ensure that all the appropriate statutory provisions can be met before contemplating the commencement of any works and IFI can advise and assist in this regard for the benefit of the landowner.
In addition to statutory requirements, it would be important that consideration be given by landowners to the potential impact of any proposed works on adjoining lands and property.