I have raised on many occasions here on the floor of Seanad Éireann how important and strategic the River Moy is in County Mayo. It begins in east Mayo and flows through north Mayo and out to the Atlantic Ocean. It has been fished by many people. It is known nationally and internationally. The late and great Jack Charlton fished there many a summer after World Cups. Later this afternoon the climate, energy and environment committee will have a discussion on the salmon decline in the River Moy. I would like to take the opportunity this morning to acknowledge the work of the Moy Action Group, members of which - Martin Parker, Simon Leonard, Peter McHugh, Rob Cording and Ian Canavan - are here in the Gallery this morning, and acknowledge the work and leadership that they have brought to the table on behalf of fishermen and women in County Mayo. The ask is clear: that we have accurate data. There is no denying that there are challenges facing the River Moy and salmon stocks right around the world but the accuracy of data is part of that question. From the Leader's experience advocating for fishermen in Galway, he has been a strong supporter of them.

I acknowledge the work of the team from Moy Action Group and look forward to the discussion we will have later today. It is often commented upon that it is important to listen to communities and people on the ground because they are the eyes and ears. They understand it intimately, care about biodiversity and the precious ecosystem that is the River Moy and what can be done to protect it. It is also important to have clear data on the number of smolts and salmon in the river and what needs to be done to protect and enhance it for future generations. Blanket bans and closures are not always the answer. I will also highlight Thomas McMahon in Foxford in Mayo, who has innovated with an app that can help be part of that solution. Councillor Neil Cruise has been very supportive of it too. In respect of the measures that will be proposed later today in the conversation we will have, I ask for Commencement debates on them and that we have the relevant Minister to make them a reality.