343. 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 was subject to a full appropriate assessment screening when drafted to ensure compliance with the requirements of regulation 31 of the now repealed European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997 (S.I. No. 94 of 1997); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44131/26]

An appropriate assessment screening was not undertaken in respect of  the Western Fisheries Region Conservation of Trout Bye-Law No. 840 of 2008.

This bye-law introduced conservation measures such as bag limits, minimum size limits and restrictions of angling methods, aimed at reducing fishing pressures and supporting the sustainable management of trout stocks. It did not provide for any new fishing activity or an increase existing fishing pressure.