305. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 19 and 20 of 25 March 2026 that the TEGOS report indicates that the Boyne salmon stock is achieving only 10% of its conservation limit, if he will activate an action plan for the Boyne salmon stock; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36943/26]

The continued decline in salmon stocks is indeed a matter of grave concern. In February, I wrote to the Board of Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) seeking their views on the operation of the current salmon management framework and whether any refinements or changes should be considered for future fishing seasons. IFI are to report back to me in early summer and this review will take into account the management of all salmon fisheries, including the Boyne.

IFI has advised that they have carried out extensive work on the River Boyne catchment to restore salmon stocks, and plan to continue doing so over the coming years.

Habitat restoration work on the Boyne system includes gravel raking and gravel installation to improve salmon spawning habitat, the installation of woody features to improve habitat diversity, riparian tree planting along riverbanks to provide shade and lower water temperatures, and both the erection of fencing and installation of solar drinkers to restrict livestock access and buffer against diffuse pollution. Works also include the removal of barriers within the catchment, to improve overall salmon migration and improve access for adult fish to upstream nursery areas.

Projects also planned by IFI for the River Boyne and its tributaries throughout 2026 include barrier mitigation and habitat enhancement works on the Kells Blackwater, Knightsbrook, Newtown, Skane and Trimblestown Rivers.

These works are typically carried out by IFI, in conjunction with other stakeholders including local interest/angling groups and public bodies like the Office of Public Works (OPW) and Coillte.