Bobby Aylward (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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267. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will consider a voluntary buy-out scheme for current licence holders on the River Barrow where sea-slob trout population levels have fallen below conservation limits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38684/15]

Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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The previous salmon hardship scheme, which closed in 2007, related to salmon fishermen. The River Barrow has, in recent years, been closed to the harvest of salmon by either commercial or recreational means. I understand that commercial activity in relation to the species referred to by the Deputy on the River Barrow could only apply to migratory trout over 40cms in length. Therefore such activity, if it were permitted, would be extremely limited.

In the context of the issue raised there is no property right attaching to public licences and therefore the issue of a buy-out, as outlined by the Deputy, is not appropriate.