Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 310: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the proposed formation of a new fishery authority from 1 August 2009, to be called Inland Fisheries Ireland; the discussions there have been with anglers with regard to this body; if he shares the view which has been expressed that, rather than a new authority, the proper financing of the present system would be more useful; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14570/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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Following on from the 2009 Budget Day announcement on 14th October 2008 of the rationalisation of State agencies, the Government has now formally approved proposals for the restructuring of the inland fisheries sector, which includes the creation of a single strengthened national inland fisheries authority to be known as Inland Fisheries Ireland. This authority will replace the existing Central and seven Regional Fisheries Boards. A restructuring implementation group which includes representatives of the Central and Regional Fisheries Boards has been established and is developing the key features and structures of the model. Primary legislation is required for this implementation and in this regard a draft Heads of Bill has recently been approved by Government.

I wish to advise the Deputy that I have met with angling representatives on a number of occasions since the announcement last October regarding the proposed restructuring of the sector.

As regards financing I consider that the establishment of a single authority creates the potential for administrative cost savings over time. In addition to financial savings, the new model will consolidate and thus ensure the better use of existing resources and deliver improved value for money management of the State's resource without impacting on the core conservation and management functions currently exercised by the Fisheries Boards.