John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 320: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when a decision will be made on whether the findings of the report on the three-year experiment into monofilament nets in Cork Harbour will be taken on board for the 2006 season (details supplied); when a final decision will be issued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31349/05]

Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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I have recently received a report from the South Western Regional Fisheries Board on the final year of a three-year experiment carried out since 2003 to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of alternative methods of draft net fishing, in particular the use of monofilament netting, for wild salmon in Cork Harbour. In forwarding this report to me the chief executive officer advised that the South Western Regional Fisheries Board has, by majority decision, decided to endorse the findings in the report and to recommend that monofilament and other operational changes be legalised for draft net fishing within the harbour.

I am examining the report submitted to me and assure the Deputy that I will make a decision, having considered all relevant issues involved and bearing in mind that any legislative changes which may be required will need to be put in place in good time before the commencement of the next draft net fishing season in Cork Harbour in May 2006.