Fisheries Protection

Tuesday, 18 November 2025

Ceisteanna (213)

Mairéad Farrell

Ceist:

213. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if his Departmental officials and Inland Fisheries Ireland continue to legislatively conserve the invasive fish species of roach and dace in the River Blackwater special area of conservation, SAC, considering their classification under the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (S. I. No. 477 of 2011); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63210/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment

I have been advised by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) that the coarse fish species, dace and roach, have been present in the Munster Blackwater for several decades and they have colonised most areas of the catchment.

As the Deputy is aware, Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI), in conjunction with the Department, is carrying out a review of relevant inland fisheries bye-laws in force for 10 years or more and their continued application. The Conservation of and Prohibition on Sale of Coarse fish Bye-Law No. 806 of 2006 is being examined as part of this extensive work programme.

IFI recently ran a public consultation process to invite views regarding the review of this bye-law. I look forward to the review process concluding in due course.