Joe McHugh
Question:1422 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will clarify the cost of tags for the drift net salmon season; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1873/08]
View answerWednesday, 30 January 2008
Questions (1356, 1357)
Joe McHugh
Question:1423 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the decision with respect to the €10 fee for salmon tags for 2008 season (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1891/08]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 1422 and 1423 together.
The introduction of a charge for tags for salmon harvested for commercial and recreational purposes in the Foyle catchment during the 2008 season is a proposal introduced by the Loughs Agency in the context of the future management of the wild salmon fishery following cessation of the mixed stock harvest at sea.
The proposal was introduced during the public consultation exercise undertaken in relation to the cessation of the mixed stock fishery and preparation of a hardship package for those affected by the initiative. The Loughs Agency is at present preparing to go to public consultation on the statutory by-law that would give effect to the specific proposal. The proposal will ultimately fall to the North-South Ministerial Council for decision.