asked the Minister for the Marine if he will give details of any plans he has to generate growth in the angling tourism sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Angling Tourism Sector.
163.
I have instructed my Department to expedite the preparations of a comprehensive development plan for inland fisheries. My Department, the Central and seven Regional Fisheries Boards are now proceeding with full speed in drawing up these plans for the individual regions so as to tie in with the programmes which are being drawn up for the economy and regions generally for the purpose of the EC Structural Funds. These plans will be aimed at, inter alia, developing tourist angling with a view to creating the 1,500 new jobs as targeted in the Programme for National Recovery. The Deputy will appreciate that the full support of the angling community financially and otherwise will be necessary to achieve this objective.