Vol. 493 No. 4
35 Mr. U. Burke asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the plans, if any, he has to reform the organisation of inland fisheries as recommended in a recent report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16231/98]
I announced at the end of 1997 my intention to review the structures and organisation of the inland fisheries services. The objective of my review is to ensure the most effective and efficient delivery of service and best deployment of human and financial resources through the necessary degree of legislative and organisational change. Changes to deliver best management practice, service delivery and resource deployment will be combined with a catchment management approach to the conservation, management and development of fisheries a regional and local level. Clarity in the respective role of the Department, the Central Fisheries Board and the regional fisheries boards is a key consideration.
The review process is under way in the Department and I intend to bring forward proposals later in the year.
