Inland Fisheries

Thursday, 11 July 2024

Questions (140)

Mairéad Farrell

Question:

140. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if there have been discussions between the inland fisheries division and Inland Fisheries Ireland regarding the implementation of a full catch and release policy on all fish species, both native salmonids and invasive pike, throughout the Owenriff River catchment near Oughterard, County Galway, which spans not only Lough Corrib special area of conservation but also the Connemara bog complex special area of conservation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30751/24]

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Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications (Deputy Eamon Ryan)

No such discussions have taken place between my Department and Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). However I expect soon to receive, for my consideration, a comprehensive draft management plan from IFI for all waters within the Great Western Lakes including the Lough Corrib SAC. This plan will aim to address some of the many factors that impact on the ecological well-being and the status of native fish stocks in the catchments of the Great Western Lakes. Any decisions around the management of fish species in these waters will be taken following consideration of the plan.

In view of IFI's statutory remit and scientific expertise, my Department considers the advice of Inland Fisheries Ireland on the conservation of fish species nationally on an ongoing basis.