Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 April 2025
246. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his officials in the Inland Fisheries Division issued section 14 authorisations to Inland Fisheries Ireland under the Fisheries (Consolidation) Act 1959 (details supplied) for the restocking of invasive pike into Lough Corrib SAC during stock management operations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18721/25]
View answerNo Section 14 authorisation has been issued to Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) by officials in my Department for the restocking of pike into Lough Corrib SAC during stock management operations.
My Department issues authorisations to applicants seeking approval under Section 14 of the Fisheries (Consolidation) Act 1959, which allows them carry out a range of different functions including the stocking or restocking of fish in rivers and lakes either for scientific purposes or for fishery improvements.
Each application received by my Department for such authorisation is forwarded to IFI for their advice on the proposed works. After considering the scientific advice provided for each individual application, the Department may seek additional information from the applicant, including the submission of an appropriate assessment screening if it is deemed necessary. It is only when all relevant paperwork is received and reviewed by the Department that a Section 14 authorisation is issued.
