Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 June 2011
134 Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to realise the full potential of the angling sector to generate employment and revenue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14919/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraInland Fisheries Ireland (IFI), which operates under the aegis of my Department, is statutorily responsible for the protection, management and conservation of the inland fisheries resource. Section 7 (3)(k) of the Inland Fisheries Act 2010 specifically provides that IFI "support angling promotion and marketing activities and cooperate with relevant State agencies and such sectoral interests as IFI considers relevant in developing international promotion and marketing strategies and activities in relation to game, coarse and sea tourism angling".
IFI is fully alert to the benefits of angling tourism to the national and regional economy and promotes angling to develop the tourist potential of the resource throughout the country and as a leisure pursuit.
IFI works closely with both Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland to develop and promote angling for overseas visitors. An Angling Tourism Marketing Strategy was jointly developed by Fáilte Ireland and IFI's predecessor, the former Central and Regional Fisheries Boards, in 2007. This identified that angling in Ireland has considerable potential for growth and development that can contribute to the achievement of broader public policy objectives in terms of national and regional development.
Currently IFI provides, inter alia, advice and assistance with regard to the Irish angling product to both national and overseas tour operators and agents. They endeavour to optimise coverage of the Irish angling product with local, national and international media. They maintain an up to date databank of angling information, and assist at national angling events.
IFI will continue to develop, market and promote, within available resources, all aspects of angling.
