Michael Ring
Ceist:161 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the plans the Government has to buy out salmon licences; and the amount the Government will offer fishermen for these licences. [17181/01]
Written Answers. - Commercial Salmon Fishing.
I refer the Deputy to my replies to previous questions on this matter and in particular my reply to Question No. 52 on 8 May 2001, in which I stated that the issues inherent in a complete voluntary buyout of the Irish commercial salmon fishing sector are complex. I have cautioned against excessive raising of expectations regarding compensatory payments and against the belief that all active commercial salmon fishermen are willing to be bought out.
As I have stated previously the national salmon commission is working to form a late consensus advice on this matter, which is being complemented by detailed analysis by my Department of overall policy directions in relation to the commercial salmon fishing sector and which will inform my consideration and decision on the way forward.