342. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if the Western Fisheries Region Conservation of Trout Bye-Law (No. 840) 2008 is being reviewed by his officials considering that it has been in existence for more than ten years; given statements made by the previous Minister on 5 July 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44130/26]

The Western Fisheries Region Conservation of Trout Bye-Law No. 840 of 2008 was introduced to support the conservation of trout stocks, including the genetically unique ferox trout, in the Western Lakes and their tributaries.

This bye-law is being examined by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) in the context of the development of the long-term Management Plan for the Great Western Lakes. The Department will consider the outcome of IFI's assessment in determining whether any legislative changes are required.