Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 May 2016
561. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the compensation procedure for eel fishers given that eel fishing has ceased permanently; and if compensation is available from a European Union fund. [11854/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland's Eel Management Plan (EMP) was accepted by the European Commission in 2009 under EU Regulation 1100/2007. The EMP included a cessation of commercial fishing for an initial three year period, after which the plan was reviewed and conservation measures renewed for a further three years. The review included a robust public consultation process and a detailed scientific assessment. A similar review was carried out in 2015 and the EMP will again be reviewed in 2018.
Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) is currently developing a range of scientific eel fisheries in designated catchments. Expressions of interest have been sought from experienced fishermen who wish to partake in this process. The fisheries will be catch and release scientific operations with IFI staff on site to take biological measurements of eels. The fisheries will provide more detailed scientific information and facilitate an assessment of the potential for a return to commercial fishing for the 2018 review.
There is no property right attaching to public eel licences and consequently the issue of compensation is not relevant or appropriate, given that the closure of the fishery was applied for conservation reasons under the Fisheries Acts.
I am advised that the Deputy’s reference to EU funding, in a case where a permanent cessation of fishing activity has taken place, may relate to the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF). This is a European Union programme and the Competent Authority for administering the EMFF in Ireland is the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine. I will ask the relevant Minister to respond directly to the Deputy on what opportunities may exist under this mechanism.
