Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not have the figures with me. I have had a number of representations on the Slaney in particular, which was closed this year. The Department is examining a number of issues local anglers have raised relating to some of the reasoning behind that. There is a wider issue in regard to closing rivers. Many anglers believe that if we close rivers we are taking out the eyes, so to speak, and the security of the local angler in terms of action against poaching. That is something we are investigating with a view to considering if we can extend the catch and release to all rivers that are closed, depending on the type of hooks used to ensure the chance of survival is maximised. Clearly, no angler wants to see a river closed, but this is about protecting a hugely important species. There is a requirement under European directives. We all want to see healthy rivers and thriving salmon stocks into the future. I will get those figures for the Deputy.