Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

592. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the amount Inland Fisheries Ireland spent on the pike culling and removal of pike in Loughs Corrib, Mask, Conn, Cullin, Sheelin, Arror and Carra since 1996; his views on if this has been a worthy process with particular emphasis on the loss of revenue to hoteliers and accommodation along said waterways; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14700/16]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am advised by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) that the National Pike policy, and similar policies for Bass and Trout, were launched in August 2014.  The Pike Policy was agreed with the Irish Federation of Pike Angling Clubs, the Trout Anglers Federation of Ireland and the National Association of Recreational Anglers.  It was expected that the policy would be reviewed following 3 years of its implementation

However, I understand that IFI has already commenced the process of examining all relevant and appropriate data to inform the review of these policies. This process was initiated in January 2016 and includes the examination of:

- The current stock management programme, including resource usage, fish transfer and health and safety;

- Marketing and socio-economic information to include actual and potential economic value;

- Scientific information to provide advice and to consider the scientific merits of the processes being currently undertaken.

An important element of the review will be a public consultation process to ensure that anglers and other stakeholders have sufficient time to consider the existing policies and make submissions that will inform the review.  IFI committed to the public consultation to ensure that the decision-making process around policy formation is better informed and more rigorous and accountable.

The latest available information as regards financial and time inputs to this activity by IFI, since its establishment in 2010, is publicly available on IFI’s website at the following link . I will provide the Deputy with a copy in the post.