Fisheries Protection

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 February 2014

Tuesday, 18 February 2014

Ceisteanna (471)

Seán Kyne

Ceist:

471. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his interpretation of by-law 533 of the 1966 Fisheries Act as it relates to snorkelling for shellfish when snorkelling is permitted; the conditions or restrictions that apply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8052/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

The enforcement of bye law 533 of 1966 is exercised by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). I am advised by IFI that, on an operational basis, the bye-law is construed as prohibiting snorkelling to target shellfish. Interpretation of the bye law would be a matter for the Courts.