Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 233: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the additional measures he will undertake to protect coarse fish stocks in rivers and lakes here which are under threat from illegal fishing; if he will encourage a catch and release ethos, strengthen legislation and regulation, as required, and improve enforcement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12097/06]

John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Central Fisheries Board is currently undertaking a review of coarse fish policy in Ireland with a view to advising me, as Minister of State with responsibility for the marine, on developing an informed national policy for the management, development and protection of this important natural resource. I understand that the group undertaking the review expects to complete its work in March 2006 and intends to forward its report to me, following due consideration by the fisheries boards. I can assure the Deputy that I will consider the findings of this report, once I have received it.

In the meantime, the National Fishery Managers Executive is considering appropriate fish conservation measures that might be put in place in the short term. I am awaiting its advice, which is due imminently.