Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent)
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188. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment how many of the fisheries claimed by Inland Fisheries Ireland were the subject of the Irish Land Act 1903 and, if not, what statutory basis they have; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16991/23]

Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent)
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189. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment in the case of counties Mayo and Kerry to list the fisheries that Inland Fisheries Ireland does not claim but that were the subject of the Irish Land Act 1903; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16992/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 188 and 189 together.

The Irish Land Act 1903 predates the foundation of the State and amended the law relating to “the occupation and ownership of land in Ireland and for other purposes relating thereto and to amend the Labourers (Ireland) Acts.”

Specifically, section 13 of the Act provides for retention / transfer of sporting (including fishing) and mineral rights, when land is being sold, including to the then Land Commission.

Fisheries in the ownership of Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) are a matter for IFI who have established a specific email address for queries from Oireachtas members so that queries can be addressed promptly, in line with IFI’s objective to deliver services to the highest standards. The email address is oireachtas@fisheriesireland.ie.

In addition, I am advised that there are a range of fisheries in public ownership via other Ministers, Departments or Public Bodies and IFI may be able to assist in this.