Vol. 526 No. 5
2 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the plans he has for the implementation of EU policy on the elimination of drift net fishing for salmon; if he has had any discussion with representatives of the drift net fishermen; the outcome of any such discussions; the proposals for the payment of compensation in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26412/00]
I wish to clarify for the Deputy that there is no EU ban on drift netting for salmon. My principal policy objective in relation to the national salmon resource is to increase returns of salmon thus enhancing the availability of stocks for tourism and domestic sport angling to the national benefit. The legitimate entitlements of commercial salmon fishermen as stakeholders in the resource are also reflected in policy.
There is a great deal to be done on a range of complex challenges facing the salmon resource. In addition to progressing tagging as a management information tool, I have invited the National Salmon Commission to formulate analysis and advice on a number of key priorities. These include spring salmon conservation, catchment management strategies and incentivising reduction of commercial fishing effort.
Commercial drift net fishermen are represented on the commission with all key players. There is a long-standing body of opinion at home and abroad which sees the buy-out of commercial licences as the key to restoration of salmon stocks. The situation is far more complex in reality and the international experience is mixed. I am expecting the consensus advice of the commission shortly, but I would underline that overall policy will continue to be informed by all relevant factors, including the tangible benefits to be gained through all stakeholders co-operating in the catchment management process.
At present we are co-financing two pilot schemes at catchment level for voluntary set aside of commercial nets for salmon. Both of these schemes are based on matching contributions by other stakeholders. I have requested the regional fisheries boards to encourage the development of similar projects based on consensus and local contribution. The Southern Regional Fisheries Board informs me that discussions are taking place with the relevant stakeholders on a pilot set aside for drift nets in the Suir and Blackwater estuaries. The board plans to present a fully developed and costed proposal for consideration prior to the start of the 2001 fishing season. All such voluntary schemes, will be considered for matching funding, having regard to all the relevant criteria and in consultation with the National Salmon Commission.
I am available to meet representatives of the drift net fisherman to hear their views. I would also commend to the Deputy the long-standing salmon management model in the Foyle where fishing effort by commercial and angling interests is managed each season based on real-time stock information.
I am glad to hear we are moving in the right direction. Will the Minister agree it is universally accepted that drift net fishing is the biggest cause of the reduction in the level of salmon and the diminishing salmon stocks in Irish and international waters?
It is very difficult on anecdotal evidence to be sure what is causing the reduction in the salmon resource. Over-fishing by commercial interests is a contributing factor. It is interesting to note that in Canada all the commercial net fishermen were bought out by the Canadian Government approximately five years ago. My Canadian counterpart informed me that there has been no increase in the wild salmon stocks in rivers as a result of the buy-out, which was a very expensive exercise. It is difficult to be definitive and say the reduction in salmon stocks is caused by one or other reason. There is no question that if salmon are caught in the north-west and west Atlantic then fewer of the species get back up the rivers. It is a contributing factor.
