Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 November 2017
190. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the options Inland Fisheries Ireland has considered to assist returning salmon negotiate both a privately owned tailrace and a weir on the River Slaney at Clohamon, Bunclody, County Wexford; when Inland Fisheries Ireland will take action to alleviate passage for salmon at these points; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49559/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am informed by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) that they have powers under Section 123 of the Fisheries (Consolidation) Act 1959 in relation to the requirements for gratings in watercourses diverted from rivers to prevent entry therein of salmon or trout.
While the gratings in question meet the legal requirements of Section 123 of the Fisheries (Consolidation) Act 1959, IFI is aware, however, that there exist significant issues for the free passage of fish at Clohamon. IFI is particularly anxious to improve fish passage at Clohamon but many of the issues at this location are beyond the powers and remit of IFI.
IFI has worked and will continue to explore options with stakeholders in an attempt to address the complex issues at this location.
