Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I understand the anglers' perspective, but IFI is charged with the conservation of the Atlantic salmon stock. It is conscious of the protection and preservation of that species in all its forms. There is a concern that once the stock is above the conservation limit, it is not justified. At the time it was there before the conservation limit was under pressure, there was also an exercise in trying to understand the patterns of return. That was a separate project which is no longer relevant from IFI's perspective. Knowing his interest in this area, I will ask IFI officials to meet the Deputy and share with him all the details and data in order that he can understand the reasons behind this.

I recognise that anglers are an important part of the ecosystem relating to our fisheries. In virtually all cases, they are the custodians of the waterways. They act to preserve and protect that resource in a respectful way. I met some of the anglers from the Corrib. I think I was due to meet them this week but due to other events meetings had to be postponed. I am happy to have ongoing dialogue with them. The Deputy fed into the provision in the programme for Government about the protection and preservation of the salmon stocks in the Corrib region. I look forward to ongoing dialogue with him. My office will be in touch in relation to setting up a meeting with IFI.

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