Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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177. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans for the implementation of a hardship scheme for eel fishermen; when it is likely to be rolled out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44146/17]

Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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I refer to the reply to Question No 519 of 10 October.

The possibility of implementing support measures for eel fishermen remains under consideration.

Ireland’s Eel Management Plan (EMP) under EU Regulation 1100/2007, which included a closure of commercial fishing, was approved by the European Commission in 2009. Ireland's EMP and its conservation measures were reviewed in 2012 and in 2015, in accordance with the EU Regulation. Both reviews involved an examination of the latest scientific data and the conservation measures, the results of which were the subject of public consultations.

In that context, I recognise fully the difficulty facing eel fishermen. However, there is no property right attaching to public eel licences. Notwithstanding, the possibility of implementing support measures for eel fishermen is a matter under consideration.

Both I and the Minister have also discussed the issue of eels with ESB Fisheries who are fishery owners in this context.