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

Programme E provides grant funding to Inland Fisheries Ireland, which is responsible for the conservation, management and regulation of Ireland’s inland fishery resource. In 2018, Inland Fisheries Ireland will continue to deliver its licensing, permitting and enforcement responsibilities, along with the rehabilitation of our rivers and streams. The delivery of a wide-ranging set of investments, innovations and promotions under the national strategy for angling development will ensure that Ireland’s fish stocks and angling infrastructure are protected and enhanced for both their economic value and their recreational benefit to the communities and visitors they serve across Ireland. The inland fisheries programme includes an allocation of just under €18.7 million towards the staff costs of Inland Fisheries Ireland and the Loughs Agency of the Foyle, Carlingford and Irish Lights Commission. The Loughs Agency is a North-South body and is co-funded on a 50:50 basis by my Department and Northern Ireland's Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. Also included in the programme is €14.3 million for non-pay current and capital expenditure by the two agencies.