Thomas Pringle (Donegal South West, Independent)
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Question 148: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the date on which an anglers association with whom Inland Fisheries Ireland has done the deal to manage angling on the Gweebara river in County Donegal came into existence; the reason other angling associations (details supplied) were not consulted on the management planning; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9020/12]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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The fisheries management of the Gweebarra River is a matter for Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) and in common with other Rivers consultation with stakeholders is a key element of that management.

I am advised that the Gweebarra Fishing Club is the local club resident within the Gweebarra catchment. The Gweebarra club is a rejuvenated version of the Gweebarra Fisherman's Association which dates back to 1970. The Gweebarra and District Angling Association was formed in September 2000 and officially affiliated with the Donegal Game Angling Federation on 16 January 2001. Since March 2005 when the local draft net fishermen were included, the club has been known as the Gweebarra Fishing Club.

The Rosses Angling Association (which is a private fishery) and the Fintown Anglers Association, are resident in two of several adjoining catchments to the Gweebarra catchment.

However, I am advised that the local consultation process was comprehensive. From the stage of initial dialogue and throughout the local consultation process the Donegal Game Angling Federation was formally consulted on the management planning for the Gweebarra fishery. The affiliates of the Donegal Game Angling Federation include the Rosses and Fintown Anglers Association and the Gweebarra and District Angling Association along with several other local angling clubs.