Joanna Tuffy (Dublin Mid West, Labour)
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Question 511: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position with regard to the new Fisheries (Consolidation) Bill; the groups and bodies that have been consulted in the drafting of the heads of the Bill; when it is expected to be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7539/08]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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My Department, along with the chief executives of the fisheries boards, is currently examining all of the legislation governing the inland fisheries sector with a view to bringing forward proposals for legislation to replace the existing 17 statutes.

This exercise is being undertaken in tandem with the work of a subcommittee of the Fisheries Boards' Liaison Group, in respect of restructuring of the boards. I requested that the group, along with officials from my Department, develop an agreed proposal for my consideration by April of this year. Once I have had an opportunity to consider the detailed proposals from the subcommittee, the most appropriate way forward in terms of streamlining the sector will be identified for implementation. I would hope to be in a position to seek Government approval to the proposals and the preparation of appropriate Heads of Bill soon after that.