Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 September 2020
128. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Climate Action and Communication Networks his plans to rescind by-laws 806 and 809 as they relate to inland fisheries and replace them with new by-laws that exclude areas that are special areas of conservation for salmonid fish; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21702/20]
View answerThe Bye-laws referred to by the Deputy relate to fisheries conservation and concern the catching and retaining of non salmonid species. Both are in force since 2006 and apply on a national basis. The conservation objectives of both Bye-laws remain relevant and, accordingly, I currently have no plans to revoke them. However, in the context of developing a policy statement for the angling sector, I have asked my officials to consider other options for strengthening protection and conservation for other salmonids including trout. This consideration could include, inter alia, extension of Ireland’s exemplary salmon management regime to other salmonids and a review of Bye-laws relating to the catch and retention of such fish.
