Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 405: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his proposals to reduce the number of fisheries boards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34323/04]

Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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I have no proposals at present to reduce the number of fisheries boards. The Deputy may be aware that the report of the independent estimates review committee to the Minister for Finance indicated in respect of the fisheries boards that "there would seem to be scope for rationalising the existing structures of the central and regional fisheries boards" and questioned "whether the existing arrangements represent the most efficient means by which the functions in question can be discharged". The Deputy may also be aware that my predecessor appointed a consortium of expert consultants, led by Farrell Grant Sparks Consulting, to undertake a high-level review of the inland fisheries sector in Ireland.

The review will deliver a root-and-branch examination of the State's role and objectives in the inland fisheries sector. The consultants are required to evaluate the adequacy of the current model for the governance of the inland fisheries sector; to define the current relationship between the Government, the Department or Departments and the inland fisheries sector and suggest new more effective models; and to recommend a structure which will contribute to the optimum development of the inland fisheries resource in Ireland.

While I appreciate that previous indications were that I expected to receive this report before now, I am advised that the complex review is not yet complete. The process is coming to a close and the consultants expect to present their report to me shortly.