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

As the Deputy is no doubt aware, a by-law was recently signed relating to catch and release and fly fishing only, downstream from the weir, within 10 m. Seven signs have been erected to notify the public of the new by-law. These were erected yesterday. Staff are monitoring daily all activity relating to the Fermoy weir, both with regard to water levels and angler presence. Fish stocks are under stress with the low water levels and high temperatures of water. We are told that there is a satisfactory flow of water going over the weir at one of the breaches in the south bank of the weir in the proximity of the mill race. IFI is confident that, at present, the situation is okay in the event of any fish running or migrating upriver. I was presented with some photographs taken today, showing that there is sufficient water for fish to get up. The consensus is that if fish were to arrive now that temperatures have dropped slightly, passage across the weir in Fermoy would be possible.

This is something that came from the local angling community. It wanted a by-law because it was felt salmon stocks were under threat and we were happy to be able to ensure it was enacted. I understand and accept the importance of the weir to the town in terms of tourism, angling and flood prevention. It is important that the project would be progressed in whatever way possible. When Cork County Council presents a definite plan to the Department I would be happy for officials to engage with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform on funding and I will possibly do so also. It is important that Deputy Buckley and the other local Deputies and Ministers engage with Cork County Council. It may be the case that matters have progressed further than I am aware of at this moment. I understand the council was in discussions on land acquisition and perhaps it has now acquired the land. It is important that the design and planning information is presented to my officials in order to progress the matter further.

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