Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 219: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will consider allowing angling clubs or volunteers to carry out some rehabilitation works on spawning beds in County Donegal rivers that are listed by him as closed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38477/11]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I believe stakeholder involvement is crucial to ensure the conservation of our salmon stocks. In that context Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) operated a successful pilot scheme in 2011 whereby funds were made available to angling clubs and voluntary organisations for projects to facilitate the rehabilitation of salmon stocks. The scheme has proven to enhance habitat, knowledge and ultimately the angling and commercial fisheries in Ireland and I am pleased at its extension to 2012.

IFI launched the Salmon Conservation Scheme for 2012 on 2nd December. The scheme will facilitate the rehabilitation of salmon stocks giving priority to rivers below their conservation limit, which have the greatest prospect of recovery.

Application forms and full details of the scheme are available on www.fisheriesireland.ie or from any IFI office and completed applications must be returned by March 31st, 2012, following which evaluation will take place.