Fishing Licences

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2020

Tuesday, 16 June 2020

Ceisteanna (802)

Dara Calleary

Ceist:

802. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that salmon licence and permit distributors did not receive an increase in rate for the distribution of licences and permits despite Inland Fisheries Ireland increasing the fee for conservation purposes; if his attention has been further drawn to the fact that with the continued growth in the number of persons opting for card payment, the licence and permit distributor percentage rate is further decreased as a result of charges associated with card machines; his plans to compensate distributors for this loss in earnings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11472/20]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment

There has been no increase in the salmon rod licence duty which has remained unchanged since 2012. The rod licence duty comprises a conservation element (introduced in 2007) which is 50% of the total duty and is ring-fenced for salmon and sea trout conservation works and a further 50% which is the licence payment in respect of which Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) pay commission at a rate of 10%.

Permit fees have fluctuated slightly over the period but the percentage commission has been maintained at 5%. Therefore as prices fluctuate the commission percentage paid remains the same.

The decision to offer credit and debit card payment facilities to customers is a matter for each business owner. Rates are a matter for the financial institutions.