asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the total expenditure incurred by his Department in 1973, 1974 and 1975 in the restocking of salmon and trout fisheries; the progress made during these years in a restocking programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Restocking of Fisheries.
177.
The expenditure directly incurred by my Department during 1973, 1974 and 1975 on the restocking of salmon and trout fisheries is £5,055, £4,918 and £2,885 respectively. Much more of this work is, however, done by the Inland Fisheries Trust and the boards of conservators and substantial grants are made to these bodies each year from the Fisheries Vote to enable them to carry out their various functions, including that of restocking fishery waters. Having regard to the healthy state of the salmon and trout stocks I am satisfied that the restocking programmes are proving satisfactory.