Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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894. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will respond to issues outlined in a communication received from a group (details supplied) in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46780/15]

Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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I am advised by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) that a funding allocation was made, under the Salmon Conservation Fund, towards a project addressing engineering issues relating to a counter for the River Glyde.

An engineered bypass channel on the White River at Connor’s Mill has been identified as the preferred option at that location, and a similar funding allocation was also made in respect of procurement of engineering consultancy services for this. It is hoped to progress both projects in 2016.

In relation to the River Dee, I am advised by IFI that the river is currently regarded as meeting 24% of its conservation limit. The verified and confirmed data for the Dee for 2015 is not yet available. I have asked IFI to provide the information to the Deputy as soon as it is available. The fish counts for the period 2011 to 2014 are set out in the following table:

The option of installing a new boom to assist in amelioration of debris-related clogging issues at the fish counter site on the River Dee will be investigated by IFI in 2016.

In relation to fish tagging on the River Dee, I am advised that IFI has sought to scientifically investigate issues around the efficiency of the River Dee fish counter over recent years. A feasibility study was undertaken in 2012. Since then, river levels for the seasonal window for this work have not been appropriate in order to facilitate a scientific pit tagging measure. IFI will undertake this exercise as soon as possible, subject to seasonal and environmental constraints.