208 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his Department, the Northern Minister for Agriculture and the Loughs Agency will provide loss-of-earnings compensation to the 18 Lough Foyle salmon fishermen who do not participate in the salmon hardship fund; if he acknowledges that the livelihoods of these persons are undermined by the ban on salmon fishing in the river for 2010; if he will commit to providing loss of earnings compensation on the basis of an average of 2007, 2008 and 2009 returns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26078/10]

This recent suspension of commercial fishing in Lough Foyle was considered necessary in order to comply with the EU Habitats Directive and falling salmon numbers. No funding provision has been made by either Department to compensate fishermen affected by the suspension.

The commercial nets-men who have not been issued with licences in 2010, were made aware when the salmon hardship package was offered in 2007 that if they did not accept the package, that any future suspension or closure of the fishery would not attract hardship payments.

If the stocks improve, it may be possible to permit the taking of salmon in the future.