Vol. 487 No. 6
104 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources when he proposes to meet with representatives of fishermen regarding the implementation of the salmon management task force report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5016/98]
As I advised the House on 17 February, I formally launched the Marine Institute's technical report on the practical implementation of salmon tagging and quotas on 14 February when I addressed the seminar on catchment management in the Barrow. A copy is being forwarded to the Deputy together with a copy of my keynote speech on the occasion, I have also made arrangements to have a copy of the report placed in the Oireachtas Library.
I have put this report out for discussion, assessment and feedback. It is important to have the views of the representatives angling and commercial interests, as well as those involved in fisheries managment on the ground. I look forward to receiving the views of fishermen and other interested groups when they have had an opportunity to assess the report. I will also be glad to meet representatives of fishermen to hear the views at first hand.
The implementation of this next phase of new salmon management strategies has major practical and resource implications for all concerned. Progress will require the continued confidence and co-operation of all sides and acknowledgment that the process of change is an incremental one. It will also require recognition that the very significant cost of implementaton in terms of human and financial resources must be justified by reference to the ultimate benefits for the salmon resource, the stakeholders, fisheries salmon management and the economy as a whole.
