Pat Gallagher (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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145. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the details of his Department's proposed eel licence buy-out scheme; the timeframe for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19146/18]

Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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146. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the details of the proposed buy-out scheme for eel fishery licence holders; when it will be finalised; the way in which the licenceholder will be dealt with under the terms of the proposed scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19230/18]

Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 145 and 146 together.

Ireland’s Eel Management Plan (EMP), including the closure of commercial fishing, was approved, in 2009, by the European Commission under EU Regulation 1100/2007.  Fishing for eel was by way of public licence and therefore the issue of compensation does not arise.

However, I directed my officials to write to the European Commission in relation to Ireland's proposals to fund a support scheme for former eel fishermen.  Consultation with the Revenue Commissioners may also be required.

Until consultations are completed, it is not possible to elaborate on the terms and conditions for, or the prospective number of participants in, any potential support measure.