Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 September 2020
184. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications the sectors to be included in the eel fisheries compensation scheme; and if the scheme will include provisions for businesses producing artisan food such as eel smokehouses. [26494/20]
View answerFishing for eel in Ireland was by way of public licence issued annually and such licences do not confer rights on the holder. Consequently the issue of compensation does not arise. However, in consideration of the economic and social impacts of Ireland’s Eel Management Plan (EMP), reported by fishermen, the Government’s Eel Support Scheme fund was made available from 2018. The EMP, required under EU Regulation 1100/2007 was approved by the European Commission in 2009
The fund was made available to former eel fishermen, following liaison with the European Commission and the Revenue Commissioners.
The scheme was available to all persons who were the holder of a State commercial public eel licence or an eel fishing permit in the 2007 season (the base year). The scheme provided payments to former fishermen based on their track record in the 5 year period 2003-2007.
All payments to qualifying applicants have been made and the fund is now closed.
