12 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for the Marine if he has received proposals from the IFO regarding drift net salmon fishing; and if he has considered those proposals.

(Limerick West): The IFO put forward a number of proposals regarding drift net salmon fishing at the meeting referred to in the Minister's reply to written Questions No. 46 on 16 May 1990. The Minister had those proposals considered but, as he indicated on 16 May, he has no plans to change or amend the present regulations governing drift net salmon fishing.

I am sure the Minister agrees that small coastal communities in the west and north-west are almost entirely dependent on a successful salmon fishing season. Will the Minister agree that these fishermen are at present in a twilight zone because they do not know whether to go out? They have been experiencing this difficulty over the last ten or 15 years. Will the Minister indicate his attitude towards the proposals, particularly the first proposal, in the excellent and constructive submission by the IFO?

(Limerick West): Which proposal?

In relation to the type of gear used by salmon fishermen.

(Limerick West): The Minister undertook to consider the points made by a deputation and these matters are being considered at present in the Department.

Am I correct in thinking that the Minister and the Minister of State are intent on wiping out the salmon drift net fishermen?

(Limerick West): No, that is not the case. The contrary is the situation.

What does the Minister mean? Is he aware that it is impossible for these fishermen to make a living at present without using monofilament netting?That is the essence of Deputy McGinley's question and the Department, the Minister of the Marine and the Minister of State have stonewalled on this issue while people are going to prison for trying to earn a living.

(Limerick West): The Deputy knows that it was not today or yesterday the matter arose. It was indicated that there would be no change for the 1990 season in regard to the use of materials.

This is a long running problem. When the former Deputy O'Toole was Minister in charge of fisheries he established the salmon review group and, after some deliberations, an excellent report was prepared. Indeed, their first report was in line and in agreement with the IFO's submissions, namely, that monofilament netting should be legalised, subject to certain restrictions. However, the Department and the Minister have been sitting on that report for over two years. How long more must the fishermen wait before there is movement from the Department on this crucial issue which affects the livelihood of every fisherman in the west? I am not talking about super trawlers——

Please, Deputy McGinley, we may not debate this matter now although I am prepared to entertain appropriate questions.

This matter affects the livelihood of the smaller boat fishermen, I am not talking about super trawlers or super tankers.

The Deputy has effectively made his point.

(Limerick West): In relation to the report, the matter is not as clear as the Deputy indicated. A number of recommendations were made which will be considered. The use of monofilament netting is under constant review.

When does the Minister or the Minister of State intend to make the decision regarding the submissions from the IFO? He indicated that it would not be this year. Will it be next year?

(Limerick West): As I said, the matter is under consideration and it is not an easy decision. As the Deputy knows, as many people are against the use of monofilament netting as are for it. The Minister must make a decision, keeping in mind the views expressed for and against.

Have the Government any intention of introducing legislation to allow the use of a limited amount of monofilament netting for salmon drift net fishermen?

(Limerick West): I doubt if legislation is required——

It would be by regulation, if not by legislation.

(Limerick West): There are no plans at present to introduce a regulation to change the position in regard to monofilament netting but, as I said, it is constantly under review. As I indicated to Deputy O'Sullivan, it is not an easy decision because there are arguments on both sides.