Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his response. I have a couple of issues to raise. I spoke about the benefit to the economy each year to the tune of €800 million and the fact that so many jobs depend on the sector. It seems strange - I am no expert in this matter - that a decision would be made by IFI to close a facility and that it would seek submissions after the event.

I understand the report mentioned by the Minister of State was produced by a Canadian firm. It made a number of recommendations, none of which included the closure of any facility. The decision seems strange in that regard. At a time when one can see the benefit to the economy and the jobs for which the sector is responsible, IFI should be given more funding rather than having its funding cut. What kind of figures are we talking about in this regard?

I plead with the Minister of State to postpone this decision as did his predecessor, the current Minister of State with responsibility for the diaspora and overseas development aid, Deputy McHugh. I ask that a meeting be organised for the delegation from the angling community to address this issue and find a solution for all concerned.