Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
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Question 120: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will review restrictions on anglers on the River Feale, in view of the fact that they are allowed only one tag per angler from 1 March until 13 May and a maximum number of 10 tags per angler for the season, and that spring salmon numbers have recovered in the River Feale over the past five to six years under the one salmon per day rule; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5179/07]

John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, the Conservation of Salmon and Sea Trout Bye-Law No. 814, 2006, which came into operation on 1 January 2007, provides for an annual bag limit of 10 fish for 2007 and a season bag limit of 1 fish during the period 1 March to 12 May in those rivers open for salmon fishing this year including the River Feale.

The Shannon Regional Fisheries Board has reviewed the available scientific data and has recommended that a relaxation on the bag limit could be introduced on the River Feale. I am considering the recommendation of the regional board along with advice obtained independent of the board and in the context of the clarity of the regulation if this measure was applied. I will make a decision on this matter before the angling season commences on the River Feale on 1 March.