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

I thank the Senator for raising the issue. Action has been taken and there has been lobbying by anglers and politicians. I acknowledge the reversal of the board's decision during the summer. Plans are being developed and I cannot say whether the Department will invest in projects until they come before me for approval. The board of IFI has to make decisions regarding what it wants to do with the investment. The facility in Cullion is under lease while the facility in Roscrea is owned. While both facilities are currently doing what they were designed for, they are antiquated and in need of investment. The board will have to come back with proposals in this regard. It is engaging on this but there are environmental issues. For example, the availability of a water supply is a particular issue on the Roscrea site. All these issues have to be examined before a decision is made. When a proposal is brought to me or whomever succeeds me, that will be dealt with and I am sure it will be looked on favourably because the Government recognises the importance of the resource, particularly to lakes in the midlands. We need to ensure continuity in the fish supply. There are also tourism and social benefits. IFI has done a great deal of work on getting children involved in angling as a recreational activity and a sport. There needs to be continuity of supply for that to continue and I have highlighted that at all times to the board of IFI. That is, thankfully, why IFI indefinitely postponed the decision that had been made. When a proposal is brought to me for investment, I will bring that to the Government and the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform and I will continue to engage with the board and the chief executive officer of IFI regarding its plans. I commend the Senator on his interest in this matter and I will continue to engage with all relevant parties to ensure a resolution to the concerns of anglers and to achieve a full and solution to ensure continuity in the supply of fish.