Fisheries Protection

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 June 2023

Wednesday, 14 June 2023

Questions (50)

Paul Murphy

Question:

50. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the circumstances surrounding the death of a critically endangered sturgeon in the River Suir in Clonmel, as confirmed by Inland Fisheries Ireland (details supplied); the cause of death; if fishing activities, including hooking, netting or removal from the water, were a factor in the fish's death; the reason the rare fish was disturbed; and if action will be taken against anyone found to have contributed to the death. [28715/23]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) have advised that a distressed Sturgeon was discovered in shallow water near Sir Thomas’ bridge in the River Suir in Clonmel, Co. Tipperary. A concerned angler had contacted IFI and a significant efforts were made by IFI staff to revive the fish but this proved to be unsuccessful.

IFI authorised the removal of the fish from the river. Genetic Research is being undertaken on the Sturgeon to determine its origin. The cause of death is currently unknown.