Press Releases

IFI Press Release Friday 16th Feb.2018

Inland Fisheries Ireland report confirms presence of Farmed Atlantic Salmon in a number of rivers in Galway and Mayo

Contemporaneous reports of escapes of farmed salmon not made by salmon farm owners

Friday, 16th February, 2018: Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) has today published a report into the occurrence of Farmed Atlantic Salmon in the Western River Basin District which confirms the presence of escaped farmed fish in a number of rivers in the Galway and Mayo region.

IFI has not been advised of any reports, by salmon farm owners, of escapes, coinciding with the detections, to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), the licensing authority for aquaculture.  The reporting of escapes to DAFM are a condition of aquaculture licences.

The new report by Inland Fisheries Ireland says that ‘up to five hundred escaped farmed salmon may have entered western salmon rivers during the August/September period 2017’.

Furthermore, it says ‘that the presence of sexually mature farmed salmon in rivers poses a potential threat to local wild salmon populations from interbreeding and other ecological effects’.

In October 2017, the Board of Inland Fisheries Ireland issued the following statement: ‘Inland Fisheries Ireland has been charged with the protection of wild Atlantic salmon and continues to have concerns regarding the impacts of fish farms on Ireland’s precious wild fish. The licencing regime and best management practice should provide assurance to the State that controls are in place that safeguard our heritage. This does not appear to be the case in this instance. Inland Fisheries Ireland supports sustainable fish farming but cautions against the renewal and/or award of licences where conditions are not being adhered to. The Board recommends immediate strict enforcement and audit of existing licence conditions to ensure compliance and ultimately a sustainable resource for all.’

Speaking on the publication of the new report, Dr Cathal Gallagher, Head of Research and Development, said: “While a small number of farmed salmon spawning in a catchment may not have a detectable long term effect on the wild salmon population, repeated escapes of large numbers of farmed fish have the potential to cause serious damage to vulnerable wild salmon populations. The large number of escaped farmed salmon entering into these rivers, with a high proportion of males likely to be sexually mature, presents a potential threat to local wild salmon populations. IFI will continue to monitor the situation and may need to conduct longer-term genetic studies on the impact of the presence of these farmed salmon.”

ENDS

For media information:

Paul O’Mahony

Communications Manager

E: paul.omahony@fisheriesireland.ie

T: 353 (0) 1 8842675

 

 

SSTRAI Press Release 29/01/2018

Angling investment is paying dividends

Angling development has taken off in Ireland following major capital investment.  Salmon conservation projects, angling facilities improvements, Coach training programmes, Angling for Youth Development Ireland Hubs support, and the provision of angling access and safety equipment is making a major difference throughout the country.

Paddy Sullivan Chairman SSTRAI acknowledges we are now seeing the benefits of state investment. We are now receiving millions of Euro in financial support this together with the expertise of state agency personnel is now helping to develop our angling sport throughout the country.

SSTRAI welcomes the recent announcements of successful funding applications under the IFI Salmon Conservation Fund, the National Strategy for Angling Development, Sports Capital Grants and Sport Ireland. The level of financial and personnel support we have received from the State Agencies such as Inland Fisheries Ireland, Sport Ireland, Coaching Ireland, Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (Sports Capital Grants) has improved immensely in recent times and the assistance and guidance of angling national governing body the Angling Council of Ireland (ACI) has been pivotal to our success.

The Salmon & Sea Trout Recreational Anglers Ireland are delighted that millions of Euro are being invested through clubs and organisations for very specific projects.  The level of support available now is having a very positive impact nationally on angling sport; this could not have come at a better time as we face many new challenges.  Declining salmon and Sea-trout stocks are worrying, we must ensure we do all we can to protect them.   I would also like to thank Irish Water for engaging with our affiliated clubs and providing leases and permissions for angling development projects.  Through our combined efforts we can provide much needed facilities for our anglers of all ages. Angling is a cradle to grave sport and is available to everyone.   Through the Angling Council of Ireland we have received excellent support for our organisation.   The Angling Council of Ireland NGB has provided us with administrative support, Garda Vetting, training and financial support.  This has helped us to advance angling as an adventure sport and outdoor activity that can be enjoyed by all.

Recreational angling is a vital economic activity in Ireland, supporting 11,000 jobs and bringing €800 million to the economy every year. (ESRI 2016)

The support received from state agencies and the ACI has given our sport a lift.  It has energised our voluntary members to work even harder to encourage more angling participation by all with a focus on youth. We want to ensure everyone can enjoy all the benefits of angling, an outdoor activity with a difference.

 Ends

For Media Enquiries:

Bob Seward Hon Secretary

Salmon & Sea Trout Recreational Anglers Ireland

Sport HQ

National Sports Campus

Blanchardstown

Dublin 15

P 0035301 6251132    M  0053 858436459 W www.sstrai.ie W  www.anglingcouncil.ie

Baltic Salmon – Swedish Export of Dioxin Contaminated Salmon now is World News
The Baltic salmon dioxin scandal story travels the world news these days. Biggest quantities were exported to France. Other import countries: Netherlands, Denmark and, Germany and UK.TV program (in Swedish) – go to 35:33: http://salmonconfidential.ca/
Le Monde Click here to view Article
English Translation Click here to view Article
BBC (article copied in below): http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-22446780Swedish Salmon Sales ‘breached EU ban’ over dioxins
The salmon issue again highlights the complexity of Europe’s food chain Firms in Sweden have sold about 200 tonnes of Baltic salmon in Europe despite an EU ban targeting toxic chemicals in fish, officials say. The ban does not apply to Baltic salmon sold to domestic consumers in Sweden, Finland and Latvia. But the sellers are required to give advice about safe limits for consumption, set by the EU. Dioxins found in Baltic herring and salmon prompted the EU ban in 2002.A French firm imported 103 tonnes of Swedish salmon, but no longer does so. Pecheries Nordiques told the AFP news agency that its tests had found no problems with the fish, imported in 2011 and 2012. “Nobody told us it was illegal,” chief executive Francois Agussol said. Jan Sjoegren of Sweden’s National Food Agency told the BBC that Baltic salmon had also been exported illegally to Denmark and the Netherlands from Sweden. The agency has alerted the European Commission, which deals with national food safety authorities. A firm in Karlskrona has been reported to the Swedish customs authorities over the salmon exports, and a firm in Hammaroe is also being investigated, Mr Sjoegren said.Dioxin hazard
The latest alert about Baltic salmon exports follows a horsemeat contamination scandal in the EU which affected many countries. “We don’t think more salmon is being exported now, but because of the horsemeat scandal we are stepping up action on food fraud,” Mr Sjoegren said.Sweden’s National Food Agency says the average intake of dioxins among adult Swedes is well below the “tolerable weekly intake” set by the EU. Children and young women, it adds, should especially limit their consumption of wild Baltic fish because dioxins pose the most risk to babies and young children. Dioxins spread by incineration and chemical pollution can accumulate in the body over years and can trigger cancer or reproductive abnormalities.The European Food Safety Authority says that, on average, Baltic herring and wild Baltic salmon are respectively 3.5 and five times more contaminated with dioxins than non-Baltic herring and farmed salmon.

Watch Salmon Confidential here

Salmon Confidential is a new film on the government cover up of what is killing BC’s wild salmon. When biologist Alexandra Morton discovers BC’s wild salmon are testing positive for dangerous European salmon viruses associated with salmon farming worldwide, a chain of events is set off by government to suppress the findings. Tracking viruses, Morton moves from courtrooms, into British Columbia’s most remote rivers, Vancouver grocery stores and sushi restaurants. The film documents Morton’s journey as she attempts to overcome government and industry roadblocks thrown in her path and works to bring critical information to the public in time to save BC’s wild salmon.
Click here to view the website

Atlantic Salmon Federation News
Live Release Video gains 8,107 viewsReleased a week ago, the Live Release video sponsored by ASF, FQSA and the Quebec Government has had more than 8,000 views on YouTube and Vimeo in English, and on YouTube in French. If you haven’t already seen it, check out this 7 min. video.

Factsheet on the Impact of Salmon Farms – Click here for article

Galway Bay Against Salmon Cages

“Simon Coveney TD Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Maine: Refuse the application from BIM to put salmon cages in Galway Bay..”Can you help this petition win by asking your friends to sign too? It’s easy to share with your friends on Facebook – just click here to share the petition on Facebook

There’s also a sample email below that you can forward to your friends. Thanks again — together we’re making change happen.


Between Fisheries and Bird Conservation: The Cormorant ConflictClick here for article

Programme Manager Appointed to Leave No Trace Ireland
February 21st, 2013

Leave No Trace Ireland is pleased to announce the appointment of Maura Lyons as Programme Manager for the organisation.Maura is originally from West Cork, has qualifications in Communications, Food Business and Psychology and has previously worked in the tourism and business development sectors. Maura is a keen outdoor enthusiast, is passionate about Ireland’s environment and will be responsible for managing and developing the Leave No Trace programme in Ireland over the next few years.

Leave No Trace Ireland was introduced to Ireland in 2006 with the aim of using this internationally recognised message and educational programme to encourage responsible outdoor recreation throughout the island of Ireland. Built on an ethos of personal responsibility for the environment, the Leave No Trace programme, helps people understand the impact of their activities and make better choices when they use the outdoors. The programme is now supported and promoted by a growing number of State agencies, local authorities, outdoor education centres, tourism businesses, governing bodies of sport, environmental and outdoor recreation agencies.

Cormac MacDonnell (Chairperson, Leave No Trace Ireland) wished Maura every success in her position which comes at a time when more and more people are getting into all forms of recreation in the Irish outdoors and the need to care for the environment and to considerate other people, flora and fauna is becoming ever greater. He also acknowledged and thanked Outdoor NI for managing the Leave No Trace programme over the past five years and also all the main funders of the programme which include Coillte, Fáilte Ireland, Irish Sports Council and the Department of Environment, Community & Local Government for their continued support.

Maura has established a new Leave No Trace office in Westport, Co. Mayo and looks forward to working with all Leave No Trace trainers, partner agencies, businesses and outdoor enthusiasts on the further development and promotion of the programme in Ireland.

Further information and contact details

Maura Lyons,
Programme Manager
Tel: 01 9059009   |  Mobile: 087 9005683
Email: info[at]leavenotraceireland[dot]org
Website: www.leavenotraceireland.org


Report on SCG Water Framework Directive – Dec 2012 – Click here for articleCEFAS Report on threats from IAS of Caspian origin – Click here for article


Summary of main changes to the management of the wild salmon fishery in 20134 Rivers which were closed in 2012 will open for angling on a “catch & release” basis in 2013:-

  • Lower Liffey – downstream of Leixlip Dam (Dublin fishery district)
  • Owenavorragh (Wexford fishery district)
  • Barrow & Pollmounty (Waterford fishery district)
  • Lackagh (Letterkenny fishery district)

3 Rivers which were open in 2012 will be limited to “catch & release” in 2013:- 

  • Blackwater Kerry (Kerry fishery district)
  • Ferta (Kerry fishery district)
  • Screebe (Connemara)

1 River which was open for angling on a “catch and release” basis in 2012 will be closed in 2013:- 

  • Behy (Kerry fishery district)

3 Rivers which were open for angling on a “catch and release” basis in 2012 will be open in 2013:- 

  • Glengarriff (Cork fishery district)
  • Clady (Letterkenny fishery district)
  • Tullaghobegley (Letterkenny fishery district)

4 Rivers which were open for angling on a “catch and release” basis until 11May in 2012 and open from 12 May 2012 will be open in 2013:- 

  • Nore (Waterford fishery district)
  • Suir (Waterford fishery district)
  • Bandon (Cork fishery district)
  • Newport (Bangor fishery district)

Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme Regulations, 2012 provide for, among other things, the total allowable catch of fish that can be harvested by commercial fishing engines and rod and line from identified rivers.

Conservation of Salmon and Sea trout (bag limits) Bye-law No. 901, 2012provides for an annual bag limit of 10 fish being either salmon or sea trout (over 40 cm) per angler and provides for a season bag limit of 3 fish in the period 1 January to 11 May, a daily bag limit of 3 fish from 12 May to 31 August and a daily bag limit of 1 fish from 1 September to the end of the season. The Bye-law also provides for the use of single barbless hooks and prohibits the use of worms as bait once the specified number of fish have been caught in the specified periods.

Conservation of Salmon and Sea trout (catch and release) Bye-law No. 902, 2012 provides for an annual bag limit of 10 fish being either salmon or sea trout (over 40 cm) per angler and provides for a season bag limit of 3 fish in the period 1 January to 11 May, a daily bag limit of 3 fish from 12 May to 31 August and a daily bag limit of 1 fish from 1 September to the end of the season. The Bye-law also provides for the use of single barbless hooks and prohibits the use of worms as bait once the specified number of fish have been caught in the specified periods.

Conservation of Salmon and Sea trout (closed rivers) Bye-law No. C.S. 313, 2012 prohibits the taking or attempting to take by rod and line salmon and sea trout over 40 cm in the rivers specified in the Bye-law.


Media Release 
December 31, 2012 

94 rivers open for salmon angling in 2013

Minister also retains lower licence fee Regulations and bye-laws for management of the wild salmon fishery in 2013 approved.

Mr Fergus O’Dowd T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, has approved a suite of regulations and bye-laws that will govern the wild salmon fishery in 2013. These will come into effect from Tuesday 1 January 2013. Minister O’Dowd said “Next year I am pleased to note 94 rivers open for angling activity in in 2013. Sixty two rivers will be fully open while a further 32 will be open for angling on a “catch & release” basis. This will provide opportunities for commercial fishermen and anglers to share this important resource on a sustainable basis.”

“Last year I lowered the cost of fishing licences and I have decided to maintain that price cut for 2013. I am anxious that lower costs will encourage sales of annual licences and incentivise angling tourists to avail of the Ireland’s first-class angling product.” ,he added.

Minister O Dowd received management and scientific advice on the current status of Irish salmon stocks fromInland FisheriesIreland and considered submissions received through the public consultation exercise. Based on this he has introduced conservation measures for the management of the wild salmon and sea trout fishery in 2013. In all, the Independent Standing Scientific Committee for Salmon (SSCE) assessed 152 rivers and have advised that:-

  • 62 rivers are open as a surplus of fish has been identified in these rivers;
  • 32 rivers have been classified as open for angling on a “catch and release” basis only; and
  • 58 rivers are closed as they have no surplus of fish available for harvest in them.

The Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme Regulations for 2013 are in essence unchanged from the Regulations which were introduced for 2012. A number of minor amendments to the Regulations, recommended by Inland Fisheries Ireland, will provide for more effective administration of the tagging scheme regulations in 2013.


Salmon Biosecurity 1 – Click here for articleSalmon Biosecurity 2 – Click here for article


The Inland Fisheries Ireland Sponsorship Scheme 2013

The Inland Fisheries Ireland Sponsorship Scheme 2013 is now open for applications. Full details of the scheme are available on line and the closing date for receipt of applications is January 15th, 2013.

There are some changes to the scheme for 2013 with biosecurity and catch and release conditions safeguarding Ireland’s wonderful inland fisheries and sea angling resources. Prizes may be sponsored under the scheme, but must be fishing tackle or angling related in order to support those providing a service to Irelands estimated 500,000 anglers.

The scheme is open to federations, clubs, individuals, youth groups, commercial salmon sector etc who in the past have gained sponsorship for competitions, angling lessons, heritage projects , international, national and local events all of which promote some or all of the following: inland fisheries, recreational angling and conservation.

Minister Fergus O Dowd, who has been extremely active in supporting many IFI sponsored events throughout Ireland this year, welcomed the scheme commenting ” Angling, and Ireland’s wonderful fisheries are there for all to enjoy. IFI , by supporting such activity is empowering individuals and organisations to boost their local economies, teach all ages and abilities to fish, have a hobby for life, and helping protect and sustain our fisheries resource into the future.”

The scheme can be downloaded from http://www.fisheriesireland.ie/Angling-Information/sponsorship-programme.html and is subject to budget.

Media enquiries: Suzanne Campion,
Head of Business Development, Inland Fisheries Ireland,
Anglesea Street, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary.

Tel: 052 6180055  |  Fax: 052 6123971
Email: suzanne.campion[at]fisheriesireland[dot]ie
Website: www.fisheriesireland.ie


Time is running out to register – “Right of Way”
Sunday Independant ArticleClick here to view

Join in the fun at Hooked Live in Citywest this weekend
Hooked Event

Please find the Secretaries annual report in the link below.
Secretary’s Annual Report 2011


SPEECH: Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (Mr F O’Dowd)I am pleased to be able to provide clarification on the issue of Bye Law 888 which was introduced with effect from 1st January 2012.Bye Law 888 2011 will shortly be revoked and replaced by Bye Law 897 2012. This change will have the effect of removing a number of provisions which had unintended consequences in the implementation of Bye Law 888.Following concerns raised with Inland Fisheries Ireland on some elements of the Bye-law, the CEO and senior management within IFI met with a delegation from the Angling Council of Ireland which included representatives from all of the major angling disciplines and federations.

Angling Bye-law 888 2011 prohibited persons using or attempting to use worms, prawn or shrimp as bait or any fish hooks, other than single barbless hooks, in angling for any kind of fish in the waters of rivers named within the Bye Law.

The angling delegation also raised the matter of the adequacy of consultation carried out in relation to the array of Statutory Instruments / Bye-Laws implemented from the 1st January 2011.

The position is that all of IFI’s 2012 fisheries management proposals were published on my Department’s website during the normal statutory 30 day consultation period. While this was part of the proposed salmon management regulations, it is recognised that those proposals had the potential to ultimately effect coarse and pike anglers. These anglers would not necessarily have had reason previously to examine the consultation documents for salmon management and hence they did not appreciate the significance of the proposed Bye-Law.

Following discussion with the Angling delegation, it has been agreed that for future years, in addition to publication on my Department’s website, the advisory/consultation documentation will be sent directly to the main angler representative bodies in advance of sign off. The angling representatives can then disseminate to their members and other interested parties.

There was also some concern at the banning of prawn and shrimp as an angling bait on Catch and Release salmon fisheries. Given that the use of prawn and shrimp as bait can be compatible with catch and release angling in the right conditions, it is proposed to remove this element of the Bye-Law and only restrict the use of worms as bait which is not compatible with catch and release angling.

A number of other issues arose in relation to the interface between the river and sea and where the worm fishing ban starts and stops and whether it is the use of terrestrial worms (Lumbricus) or marine worms (Arenicola, Nereis) or both which is banned by the Bye Law. This is a very valid issue.

On any of the salmon fisheries which are either closed or opened on a “catch and release only” basis and which have a tidal /estuarine element to them, there are clearly demarcated lines as to where freshwater fishing is considered to stop and marine fishing is considered to start. The spirit of this Bye-Law is to stop persons purporting to fish for other fish species when in fact they are fishing for salmon. In this regard the clearly acknowledged bait for salmon fishing is terrestrial worms so an angler fishing with marine worms (lug worm (Arenicola) /rag worm (Nereis)) will have no difficulty.

A clear communication to the angling communities concerned on how this element of the Bye-Law is going to be implemented will help to resolve this issue and the similar issue of the use of single barbless hooks. However it is not proposed to make any adjustments so as to mark in law each of the transition areas between freshwater and marine angling as this would be overly cumbersome and would set an unnecessary precedent.

In addition a number of specific regional issues that were raised with IFI, as a result the River Fergus System and the Kilcolgan River will now be excluded from the bye-law.

The marketing and promotion material for the Eastern River Basin District (ERBD) was also discussed. It was suggested that promotional material does not refer to the ban on the use a single barbless hook and a ban on using worms as bait.

This issue actually relates to Bye-Law 824 of 2007 which is now five years in existence, rather than Bye-Law 888. However in general when providing such information in promotional material it can easily mean that the brochure can quickly and unintentionally be taken as a guide to angling legislation rather than the intended function of encouraging people to fish.

Bye-Law 824 of 2007 was enacted after the production of some of these publications and that is why it was not referred to in the material. However, in the ERBD brochure update in 2007/2008 there is reference to the prohibition on the use of worms on any hooks other than single barbless hooks. Unfortunately it is not always possible to reprint on an annual basis so brochures have been designed in so far as possible to maximise their shelf life. This can on occasion lead to brochures becoming out of date, but IFI place up-to-date information on its website and its staff do seek to clarify and be of assistance to anyone who gets in touch..

IFI intend to ensure that reference to the relevant Bye-Law is included in all updated versions of promotional brochures and where space is at a premium clearly indicate that people should consult the IFI website for full up to date information.

In conclusion Bye-law 888 is to be replaced by a Bye-law which will incorporate the following changes.

  1. Reference to banning prawn and shrimp as angling baits be removed from the Bye-Law
  2. Remove the River Fergus System from the Bye-Law
  3. Remove the Kilcolgan River from the Bye-Law
  4. All other issues can be dealt with through giving a clear communication of the spirit and intent of the Bye-Law and how it is going to be implemented.

Annual General Meeting NoticeThe Annual General Meeting will take place on Saturday the 10th of March 2012 in Sports HQ, 13 Joyce Way, Park West Business Park, Dublin 12. Time 11.30

Click here to download the full notice


Balsam Bash

The ACI recommend all clubs that have balsam on their waters to get involved by registering with Inland Fisheries Ireland and support their initiative to help protect our rivers and lakes

How To Eradicate Him Balsam
Balsam Bash
Balsam Cover
Balsam Bash Pullup

Balsam Poster

Balsam taking over river bank

Balsam Root Ball

Cleared Area of Balsam


Introductory Coaching Course
Sunday 5th February, 2012
09:30 to 17:30
Location CorkThis is the 11th ACI / Coaching Ireland certified angling coach course. It is a one day course and is part subsidised by Inland Fisheries Ireland These courses are open to all affiliated federation club members.For further details please contact Tom Lillis ACI Course Coordinator E-mailchairifsa@gmail.com or either of the following ACI Coach Tutors, Bob Seward GAIA, E-mail info@anglingcouncilireland.ie, Der Casey GAIA, Emailder.casey@gmail.com.The full programme of coaching and CPD courses will be published here shortly.

Atlantic Salmon Federation News: Milestone Report Confirms High Value and Esteem for Wild Atlantic Salmon
11th January, 2012St. Andrews… Gardner Pinfold Consulting Economists Ltd. of Halifax concludes that wild Atlantic salmon were worth $255 million and supported 3,872 full time equivalent (FTE) jobs in eastern Canada in 2010. The firm&rsquo:s study confirms that Canadians hold a special place in their hearts, and pocketbooks, for restoration of this iconic species.Click here for more info…

TheFishSite Latest News: Shetland&rsquo:s Lost Salmon Cages Found
10th January, 2012UK – The 12 drifting salmon cages containing 300,000 fully grown fish which went missing from the Shetland isle of Unst during the Christmas gales have been taken under tow.ShetlandNews reports that the Danish tug Westsund took hold of the cages at 10.40am on Sunday morning as they lay in relatively calm waters 60 miles east of Shetland.The salmon tender Orcadia is also heading to the scene from Orkney to assist with the tow, which Shetland coastguard said was making very slow progress on Sunday afternoon.The 12 cages lost their moorings off the south coast of Unst when westerly winds reached more than 100mph on Christmas Day in Shetland.Owners Meridian Salmon managed to attach a tow using their well boat Victoria Viking on 30 December, but the operation had to be aborted due to the strength of the tide.The cages went missing again until Friday when they were spotted by Marine Scotland’s fish patrol aircraft Watchdog64, and the Shetland whitefish trawler Opportune kept a close eye on them until Westsund arrived.The company said the fish had a sales value of more than £3 million and the loss was a serious blow, however they have said it has not deterred them from farming salmon in Shetland.It is understood that two of the cages are submerged, but it is believed they are still attached to the others. The salmon are unlikely to have survived the two week ordeal.

Fisheries Awareness Week 2012
21st December, 2011Inland Fisheries Ireland announces the third annual Fisheries Awareness Week which will be held from May 12th to 20th, 2012. The aims of the week are:

  • To encourage adults and children alike who may never have fished before to take up a new hobby
  • To work with angling clubs and organisations to promote all types of angling
  • To promote the role the fisheries service has in protecting and conserving our fisheries resource

IFI will be both organising and running events, as well as supporting events organised by other angling organisations and communities across the country during the week.

Events are planned on a daily basis nationwide and the range of events offered are not only angling events but some giving an understanding of the roles carried out by IFI. Most events are free, open to all, of any age or ability, to attend. Experienced anglers, coaches or IFI staff will be at all of the events to offer advice and show newcomers how to fish, or improve their skills.

Clubs, associations, coaches, guides, skippers can all run their own events. As well as supporting the week this is an excellent opportunity to boost club memberships, fishery bookings, coaching sessions and even to sell equipment. Register an event at www.faw.ie.

Most anglers first fishing experience is organised by friends or family. That makes existing anglers, the most important gateway to angling there is. So as an individual angler what can you do? Encourage someone to attend an event — better still go with them.


Generous lady anglers
21st December, 2011Inland Fisheries Ireland has for a number of years been running very successful ‘Ladies casting days’. These events are aimed at introducing ladies to fly fishing. The days have been organised and supported by Mark Corps (IFI Angling Advisor) plus other IFI staff and run by the only Irish ladies casting coach Glenda Powell.When initially setting up the ‘Ladies casting days’ it was decided not to charge participants. However all taking part in the day would be asked to make a donation, however small to the Irish Cancer Society. The ladies have proven to be very generous and this year was no exception.So following two ‘Ladies days’ run this year. One held at Rathcon Fishery (as part of Fisheries Awareness Week) and the second at Annamoe a grand sum of €1045 had been donated.This money was recently handed over to Nuala Collins from the Irish Cancer Society by Justine Cavanagh (an IFI staff member who has herself taken part on one of the ‘Ladies days’)

Inland Fisheries Ireland 2012 Sponsorship Programme
16th December 2011Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) is pleased to announce the launch of its 2012 Sponsorship Programme. Applications are invited, by January 27th, 2012 from organisers and event promoters that will support the aims of the IFI sponsorship programme.The IFI Sponsorship Programme aims to increase awareness of IFI, its work, recreational angling, the sustainable commercial use of the inland fisheries resource, and habitat issues. IFI may support events on the basis of the location and nature of the event; the potential of the event to introduce new users to angling in an active capacity, i.e. not just as spectators; to educate and inform stakeholders of angling, environmental, commercial salmon fisheries and habitat issues.In launching the programme, Minister Pat Rabbitte, TD, Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources stated that &rsquo:the sustainable use of our wonderful inland fisheries and sea angling resources must be promoted. People of all ages can enjoy angling in urban and rural settings, off charter boats and beaches and on quiet river sides. In addition, traditional commercial fisheries add value to small local communities, while biodiversity awareness ensures a sustainable resource for all’. Acknowledging that budgets are reducing he stated that ‘I would like to commend Inland Fisheries Ireland for supporting their stakeholders’ efforts to conserve, protect, promote and develop the inland fisheries and sea angling resource’.Applications and details of the sponsorship programme can be downloaded from www.fisheriesireland.ie, from Bridie Fleming, Inland Fisheries Ireland, Swords Business Campus, Balheary Road, Swords, Co. Dublin. (01) 8842600 or your local IFI office.Click here to download application form

Sisters will be doing it for themselves at the ladies fly-fishing day!
(Places still available)

1st September, 2011On Saturday the 22nd October Inland Fisheries Ireland will again be holding an introductory ladies fly fishing day in aid of Action Breast Cancer at Annamoe Trout Fishery near Glendalough in Co. Wicklow. These events are free, open to any lady and run from 10.30 to 16.00…Click here for more info

New publication highlights Irish species at risk of extinction
6th October, 2011A new Red List of Irish Amphibians, Reptiles & Freshwater Fish has been published. While most species were considered to be of least concern, six of our 15 native fish species (40%) and one of our three amphibians (33%) have been classified as Threatened.…Click here for more info

Something Fishy Project
13th September, 2011The Something Fishy programme is being offered to ACI coaches and two dates have been set for training …Click here to read more…

Inland Fisheries Ireland’s Refurbished Ballina Salmon Weir opened by the Taoiseach, Mr Enda Keny, TD
2nd September, 2011The Taoiseach, Mr Enda Kenny, TD officially opened Inland Fisheries Ireland’s refurbished salmon weir located on the River Moy in Ballina today. In his address, the Taoiseach congratulated Inland Fisheries Ireland, the former North Western Regional Fisheries Board and the project management team on the successful completion of a complex and difficult project. The total cost of the project was in excess of €1m which was 85% funded from licence and permits sales on the Moy…Click here for more info

Child Protection in Sport Awareness WorkshopsChild Protection in Sport Awareness Training courses will take place in Clare on the following dates:

Wednesday 28th September
Wednesday 12th October
Wednesday 26th October
Wednesday 9th November
Each course will be held from 6.30pm to 9.30pm and will take place at:
the Clare Sports Partnership Offices. Cost €20pp
Prior booking and payment is essential
For further information: cathy@claresportspartnership.ie


Notice to Connaught Anglers
August 01st, 2011The Angling Council of Ireland (ACI) is hosting an angling seminar in Breaffy House Hotel Castlebar, Co. Mayo at 2pm on Sunday 14th August 2011.Click here for more info


Two men convicted for illegal netting of Salmon in the Waterford Estuary
July 21st, 2011At a sitting of the District Court held at Ardcavan, Co. Wexford on the 20th of July 2011, Judge Donnacha O’ Buachalla convicted Richard Butler Junior and Richard Butler Senior, Duncannon, Co. Wexford for illegally drift netting for Salmon in the Waterford Estuary. All drift netting for Salmon has been made illegal on conservation grounds since 2006. The offences took place at approximately 3am on the 27th of August 2010.Click here for more info

Salmon Fishing on the Suir – Brown tag Fishery opens
July 20th, 2011Salmon Rod Licence holders may once again catch and retain a salmon on the River Suir. The Suir will reopen on August 15th as a brown tag fishery and the season will end on September 30th, 2011. During this period Anglers in possession of a valid salmon licence, a blue tag and a brown tag may catch and retain one salmon in the period using a single barbless hook. Use of worms is prohibited. Any fish retained must have both tags correctly attached.Click here for more info

Public Consultation – Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme Regulations
July 13th, 2011Click here for more info

Anglers and Commercial Fishermen invited to participate in Salmon Conservation FundsPress Release May 20th , 2011
Advance Announcement – €120,000 AvailableClick Here For More Info



Code of Ethics Courses 2011For booking and enquiries please contact Pauline @ 8906256 or email pauline.gilsenan@fingalcoco.ie

Click Here To Download


Communication to ACI January 20th, 2011Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) provides this communication on foot of requests from ACI membership relating to Board Members, and the Inland Fisheries Ireland Corporate Plan.

Following meetings with the various Angling Federations during the period July to December 2010 it is appropriate that a progress update is communicated at this time. In order to maximize the use of resources, IFI will communicate this and similar updates to ACI for distribution to its members.

Click Here To Download


Salmon Watch Ireland slams ministerial statement on salmon farms and sea lice.(5 January 2011) � The following statement was issued today by the Board of Salmon Watch Ireland :

�On 22 December last the Minister of State, at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (DAFF), Mr Sean Connick TD, issued a statement with the headline �Minister Connick welcomes improvement in sea lice management on salmon farms�. Minister Connick has responsibility for the licencing and regulation of salmon farms within DAFF. The occasion of his statement was the publication by DAFF of its annual report on the incidence of sea lice in salmon farms and on progress on the implementation of DAFF�s �Strategy for improved pest control on Irish salmon farms�, published in May 2008.

The point at issue between the Minister and Salmon Watch Ireland , and others concerned with the protection of wild salmon and sea trout, is the harm being done to wild salmonids by inadequately regulated salmon farming. The environmental impact of salmon farms is considerable and, in Ireland, virtually uncontrolled with the sea lice concentrations generated by farms having a lethal impact on juvenile salmon and sea trout migrating to feeding grounds in the sea in late spring each year. These impacts have been well researched in all major Atlantic salmon farming countries (Norway, Scotland, Ireland and Canada), including within studies funded by the EU Commission.

The reality is that the regulation of the salmon farming industry in Ireland is a shambles at virtually every level and does no credit to any of the political, administrative and technical public servants responsible for designing and implementing an effective regime for its management. Until there is a serious and honest effort to address all of the issues associated with the industry then its potential for orderly development (which has been the subject of numerous reports over the past twenty years) will never be realized and serious and unnecessary damage will continue to be inflicted on wild salmonid stocks.

In fact, there is little for the Minister to welcome in the DAFF report and rather than commending its authors he would have been well advised to have demanded answers to some serious questions about progress in eliminating the negative environmental impacts of salmon farms. There is, for instance, no comment anywhere in the Minister�s statement or in the report to the fact that the Irish authorities are being vigorously pursued by the EU Commission to bring the management of salmon farms into conformity with EU Habitats Directive protections for wild salmon, on foot of a complaint lodged with the Commission by Salmon Watch Ireland in 2009.

What is clear from the report is that the impact of sea lice infestation on the salmon being farmed is the primary driving force for action by DAFF and the industry and that the now well researched and understood impact on migrating wild salmonid juveniles is very much a matter of secondary concern. Among the recommendations made in the report is one that �the Monitoring Regime and Pest Control Strategy be further developed to accommodate the growing trend towards organic farming�. What this actually means is that the chemical treatment of sea lice should be curtailed so as to maintain the organic status of certain farms rather than being driven by recorded sea lice levels and the needs of the wild stock. This reflects a stance of DAFF going back at least as far as the 2008 report.

The bias in favour of the salmon farming industry is also evident from another recommendation in the report that �the requirement to carry out mandatory treatments would be waived�.on a case by case basis� where the treatment of large fish and/or fish due for imminent harvest is involved. In fact, the report records that such a waiver process, for which there is no formal provision in the current regime, is already being implemented: the report claims that in respect of Kilkieran Bay early harvesting of fish was carried out in 2010 as a result of two successive treatments for sea lice not having reduced the levels to the required limits. The sites in Kilkieran Bay had, in fact, been treated seven times before harvesting took place and this was done in any event at the same time of year has had historically been the case for harvesting at these sites.

In his statement the Minister professes himself to be heartened by �a sustained reduction in the level of egg-bearing lice on farms in spring time�. If he believes that then he must not have read the report itself which records that of the inspections carried out on farms in the Galway/Mayo area during the critical spring period in 2010 (when junior salmon and sea trout are migrating to sea) it was found that in 61% of cases sea lice levels exceeded those that trigger a requirement for treatment and over the year as a whole 53% of inspections detected excessive sea lice levels. To the extent that there was an overall, national reduction in average sea lice levels (a fairly meaningless metric given that the impacts are local) it can in the main be traced to a reduction of production and, therefore, of sea infestations in Kilkieran Bay which has had a particularly bad record over many years.

It is noteworthy that the membership of the National Implementation Group, composed of public servants and private sector representatives, is confined to those concerned with the production of farmed salmon. There are no members drawn from those in either the state or private sectors who have a role in wild salmonid protection and development. Consequently, neither the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources nor Inland Fisheries Ireland, which have responsibility for inland fisheries, have any say in either the formulation or evaluation of measures to combat sea lice or mitigate other negative environmental impacts of the salmon farming industry. The whole history of the past 30 years of salmon farming regulation in Ireland suggests that this exclusion is not an accident.�

For further information contact:
Simon Ashe: 087 996 2424
Niall Greene: 086 826 92


Poachers & Polluters Beware � Inland Fisheries Ireland Launch 24 Hour Phone Service
: Dr Ciaran Byrne, CEO, Inland Fisheries Ireland and Suzanne Campion, Head of Business Development, Inland Fisheries Ireland.Inland Fisheries Irelands national 24 Hour Confidential Phone Line begins operation tomorrow, December 1st, 2010.. The all important number is 1890 34 74 24 or for easier recall 1890 FISH 24. This phone line is designed to encourage the reporting of incidences of illegal fishing, water pollution and invasive species. Inland Fisheries Ireland staff will investigate the reports and process as appropriate.From December 1st, the public can call IFI any time they witness illegal fishing or discover a water pollution event. Receiving timely information is critical to apprehending those responsible for damaging fish stocks or fish habitat. The public�s help is also being sought to prevent the spread of invasive species, which can cause millions of euros of damage to the aquatic environment.Dr Ciaran Byrne, CEO of Inland Fisheries Ireland, launched the phone line saying � this initiative is vital to our intelligence led protection programme . Our aim is to stamp out the antisocial practice of illegal fishing and to protect the fish and fisheries habitat. With the public�s help, Inland Fisheries Ireland can improve on its successful record of apprehension and prosecution of those involved in illegal fishing and destruction of our inland fisheries resource. I urge all those with an interest in preserving this wonderful natural resource to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to 1890 34 74 24�The phone line will be run on a pilot basis for 6 months, after which time its operations will be assessed and reviewed.Background to the Phone Line
On July 1st, 2010 Inland Fisheries Ireland was established. It has a national remit for the protection and conservation of inland fisheries and sea angling. It replaces the Central and 7 Regional Fisheries Boards. Heretofore, information was received at individual regional offices and by personnel in confidence. These numbers are still in use and may continued to be used for non-urgent reports. The new 24 Hour phone line will provide the public with one point of contact and will allow IFI to coordinate and direct a more efficient, intelligence led protection function.How 1890 34 74 24 will work
From December 1st, the phone line will be manned on a 24Hour basis. All calls will be answered by IFI trained personnel, not an answering machine. Details of the information will be logged and the information will be passed on to the relevant person and office in IFI on a 24 hour, 7 day basis. Follow up of calls may be immediate where resources allow and the information is classified as urgent.. Where calls relate to past events, follow up will begin on the next working day.Callers will be encouraged to provide their personal contact details to allow for further follow up on their information where required.Inland Fisheries Ireland is a statutory body operating under the aegis of the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and was established under the Fisheries Act on 1st July 2010. Its principal function is the protection and conservation of the inland fisheries resource. IFI will promote, support, facilitate and advise the Minister on, the conservation, protection, management, development and improvement of inland fisheries, including sea angling and develop and advise the Minister on policy and national strategies relating to inland fisheries and sea angling.

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE GOVERNMENT ON BEHALF OF IRISH SPORTClick Here To DownloadWe are writing on behalf of everyone who is involved in sport in Ireland; the participants at all levels, the coaches, the administrators, the volunteers and the countless people for whom sport provides much welcome relief from the difficult times we are living through.

We believe it is fair to say that sport has never been more important. Sport has a real capacity to lift everyone in the country whether they participate in any aspect of sport or merely follow Irish sport on television or through the wider media.

And we are talking about the positive effects of sport at every level not just the elite participants, important as they are to us all. What other aspect of life in Ireland gets 270,000 people to volunteer their time on a weekly basis to ensure that 1.7 million people participate in sport in 12,000 clubs, in every parish in Ireland.

It is possibly because of this input from volunteers that there is a popular misconception in some areas that SPORT JUST HAPPENS. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Sport as we know it in Ireland today, is the result of good planning, enlightened administration and financial investment particularly by the Government on behalf of all tax payers. That funding is the lifeblood of sport in Ireland and the catalyst for all that follows.

On a purely practical level, for every euro invested by Government the sports themselves invest a further two euros. Research published recently found that for every �100 invested by Government (both National and Local) the return to the Exchequer is �149.

It is the funding that drives the programmes at grassroots and schools level; the programmes that eventually lead to the elite performers that represent us all on the world stage.

We cannot overstress just how important the current funding is to the future well-being of sport in Ireland. While we fully understand the difficulties faced by the country and the pressures to make savings, it would be difficult over-emphasize just how important the impact of the �49.6 million given to sport through the Irish Sports Council is. It is the seed capital for activity and an industry worth in excess of �1.8 billion to Ireland each year.

It is essential that Government funding is maintained if we are to continue to develop sport at every level. It must be remembered only a small proportion goes to our elite performers. Over 80% of the money provided by the Government is invested in sport at grassroots level in creating the programmes that will produce top class athletes and just as importantly help improve the health and wellbeing of our citizens.

Such funding has never been more important. Right across the country clubs at all levels are finding that other sources of funding are drying up. They are finding it increasingly difficult to attract sponsorship, while the subscriptions normally paid by club members are becoming increasingly challenging to collect.

As you will be aware programmes like the Sports Capital Grants and the Local Swimming Pool Programme have been suspended and that is totally understandable in the current climate. While we would love to see them reinstated at some time in the future it would be disastrous for Irish sport if this was in any way at the expense of current funding.

As you will see from this document Irish sport is once again united in making this submission to you. Our single and united focus is that there should be no further cuts to the budget allocated to Irish sport through the Irish Sports Council for current expenditures.


New online Atlas of�Freshwater fish in Irish lakesThis atlas is a collaborative project between the National Biodiversity Data Centre and Inland Fisheries Ireland.The supporting database of freshwater fish in Irish lakes was complied by IFI, with contributions from the Irish Char Conservation Group, and is available to view through Biodiversity Maps.


IRISH SHORE ANGLING TEAM WINS 2010 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP IN SOUTH AFRICAIRISH SHORE ANGLING TEAM WINS 2010 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP IN SOUTH AFRICAThe Irish Shore Angling team , representing the Irish Federation of Sea Anglers, made history for Irish sport this week by winning the World Championship in South Africa last week.

The World Championship, in it�s 27th year, was contested by 16 nations and fished on the beaches of Langebann in the Western Province of South Africa. The event was held in shallow , clear water bays where water temperature reaches 24 degrees, several degrees warmer than the open coastline. This extra heat attracts fish of all species, especially small shark and rays.

Ireland�s previous best finish was a silver position though they have had two individual world champions, Timmy O Sullivan from Kerry and Michael Kearney from Dublin.

The competition was fished over 5 days and the Irish team led from day 2, overcoming the pressure of leading from the front to beat seasoned performers Italy and Spain who finished second and third respectively. Team angling competitions are intense affairs, demanding total concentration, attention to detail and fishing to a plan. The Irish team travelled to the venue several weeks beforehand to practice and devise a winning strategy.

The team consists of five anglers, one sub and a manager. Selection process is by means of a series of qualification competitions run across the provinces by the Irish Federation of Sea Anglers. This process, introduced a couple of years ago, is designed to produce the best on-form anglers and now we have the results to prove it.

The result must also be put into perspective considering that the Irish team is mostly self funded by the IFSA and the individual team members. Many of the continental teams are professional sponsored anglers with the backing of substantial funds to travel and fish the venues beforehand.

IRISH SHORE ANGLING TEAM WINS 2010 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP IN SOUTH AFRICA

The IFSA are the National Governing Body for sea-angling in Ireland and recognised as such by the Angling Council of Ireland and the Irish Sports Council. It is a 32 county federation and this years team had representatives from Cork, Kerry, Waterford, Wexford and Dublin. Team members were JP Molloy (team captain), John O Brien, Timmy O Sullivan, Mark Beatty and Derek Kenrick. Team manager was Tom Lillis who is also Chairman of the Irish Federation of Sea Anglers and the official sub was Brendan Wall.

As well as the fabulous team gold, Irish anglers John O Brien and Timmy O Sullivan finished second and fourth respectively in the overall individual table. As mentioned above, Timmy is a former individual world champion.

This result has sealed a fabulous year for Irish sea angling.. In the 2010 Home Nations competitions, the Irish Boat team and the Irish Shore Under 16�s and Under 21�s teams took gold medals in Belmullet and Scotland respectively.

Congratulations to all involved for a superb result for the team, the federation and the country.

IRISH SHORE ANGLING TEAM WINS 2010 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP IN SOUTH AFRICA


Swim Ireland�s National Child Welfare Conference � “Safeguarding Children in Sport 2010”Saturday 27 November 2010 IMI, Sandyford Road, Dublin 16Swim Ireland�s Child Welfare Conference 2010 is aimed at all National Governing Bodies and associated organisations involved in sport to focus on the requirements for safeguarding children in the sporting environment. The aim of this Conference, which is being led by Kate Hills – our National Children�s Officer, is to highlight topics that need to be considered by adults who are given the responsibility of caring for and protecting children involved in sport.

The Conference will take place in the IMI, Sandyford from 9:30am � 4:00pm on Saturday 27th November 2010
Keynote Speakers include:
David Coleman � well known clinical psychologist, author and broadcaster (21st Century Child; Teens in the Wild)
Colm O�Gorman � Amnesty International; founder of One in Four and author of �Beyond Belief�

Topics Covered:
Children�s rights and Sport � how sport can support and help children
Child: parent : coach relationship � when does support become pressure
Vetting and the recruitment process � how to cope with information
Poor practice and complaints � managing a disciplinary and complaints process
Forthcoming legislation changes affecting children � how will this affect our sports?

This important conference is aimed at everyone involved in the welfare of children in sports, including policy decision makers, children�s officers, sports tutors and the administrators of best practice for children.
The conference will highlight areas for Sports Bodies to target for improvement; to raise awareness and give solutions for areas that are difficult to deal with

You will be provided with conference materials, tea and coffee, lunch and an opportunity for you to share thoughts and ideas with others involved in sports.

Conference fee:
�50/�45 (Swim Ireland members �40/�35)
For more information or to book a place at the conference please contact:
Kate Hills, National Children�s Officer, Swim Ireland
children@swimireland.ie
Mobile: 0868560672



Notice to all Angling Council Ireland affiliated Federations and Organisations.Waterways Ireland Legislative Proposals Public Consultation Programme


The first recognised all discipline angling course to be delivered in Ireland took place in December 2008 under the auspices of the Angling Council of Ireland. Four years in the making, this historic event took place in the HQ of the Sports Council of Ireland covering sea, coarse, game and pike angling.The course was given to prospective angling coaches by a team of tutors that have graduated from the Coaching Ireland course in Limerick University.

The inaugural course covered Introduction to Angling (Level 0) and was aimed at introducing newcomers to the sport. The courses range from Introduction to level 5 – (International level).

The importance of these courses is that they are recognised by the Irish Sports Council and they introduce coaching strategies developed by Coaching Ireland in partnership with ACI. This development now brings angling in line with all other sports across the country.

The following angling National Governing Bodies are affiliated to the Angling Council of Ireland, Irish Federation of Sea Anglers (IFSA) , Trout Anglers Federation of Ireland (TAFI), Salmon & Sea Trout Recreational Anglers of Ireland (SSTRAI), National Coarse Fishing Federation of Ireland (NCFFI) and Irish Federation of Pike Angling Clubs (IFPAC). Each NGB now has representation on the tutor panel.

The Coach Tutor Panel members for 2010 are as follows:

  • IFSA Tom Lillis, Peter Flahive, Eamonn Fogarty and Brian Cooke.
  • TAFI John Fahey
  • NCFFI Der Casey
  • IFPAC Godfrey O Donahue
  • SSTRAI Bob Seward.A coaching programme is being rolled out and dates have been set for 2010.
    September 11th and 12th (Brochure and application form may be downloaded from this website)
    October 16th and 17th Mayo Sports HQ
    November 20th and 21st Venue to be arranged.Recognition of angling as a sport by the Irish Sports Council gives us a base for negotiation with official bodies on issues that relate to angling. The structured coaching approach delivered by the tutors mean that future generations of anglers will be coached in a manner that will benefit the angler and the sport. The individual angler can now use the angler pathway to be coached to whatever level of participation they so wish.Coaching Brochure


ACI request members to support the Indicon survey on economic value of sport in Ireland1st Download
2nd Download

Pleasure Craft PFD and Operation (Safety) Regulations 2005.docread more


Marine NoticeGUIDANCE ON THE SELECTION OF PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES (PFDs) FOR USE ON-BOARD FISHING VESSELS.

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Marine NoticeSURVIVING COLD SHOCK/HYPOTHERMIA.

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Stop the Slaughter of SalmonOn Saturday the 10th of July a floods in the west of Ireland allowed salmon to make their way up the rivers in particular, the rivers� Moy and Clare.

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The ACI has been accredited as a Non Governmental (NGO)Observers to NASCOThe ACI will be represented at the 27th NASCO Conference in Quebec in June

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Group Photo, CAISIE Workshop, Athlone, 22nd April 2010.


New EU LIFE project launches in lower Shannon SAC
Mulkear River Catchment – 04/05/10
The launch takes place Tuesday, 4th May 2010 of MulkearLIFE, a new €1.75 million European Commission funded LIFE Nature project working on the restoration of the Lower Shannon Special Area of Conservation (Mulkear River catchment) for Atlantic Salmon, Sea Lamprey and Otter. The project is led by the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board working together with the Office of Public Works and Limerick County Council and other stakeholders to implement the project over the next four years.CEO of the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board, Eamon Cusack stated “the Board is delighted to be working with its project partners and project supporters in implementing this critically important project”. He added, “MulkearLIFE is one of the first and most important integrated catchment management projects in Ireland. The project will be of key importance in supporting stocks and protecting the habitats of Atlantic salmon, sea lamprey and otters in the Lower Shannon SAC while building on the work of the Mulkear Catchment Management Group.The Board also welcomed the support from the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Tipperary county councils, local anglers, farming bodies (IFA & ICMSA), ESB, Coillte, Teagacs and the Department of Agriculture. Developing awareness of the catchment, its natural resource and of habitat management among the Mulkear�s many stakeholders will be greatly assisted by the wide variety of project supporters.At today�s launch Ruair� � Conch�ir, MulkearLIFE Project Manager said, “This is a flagship European Commission LIFE Nature project – one of only two awarded funding in Ireland in recent years. The Project Team is extremely appreciative to receive 50% of its overall funding from the European Union under the LIFE Nature programme”. He added, “the project area covers some 650 sq km with a variety of habitats and protected species with much of the area designated as a SAC under the EU Habitats Directive and forms part of the Natura 2000 Network”.Michael Colllins of the Office of Public Works expressed the OPW�s delight at being involved in the project and thanked the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board for their invitation to take part in MulkearLIFE as funding partners. He said, “This is the latest extension of OPW collaboration with the Fisheries Boards that stretches back more than 30 years and has encompassed works on almost all of the major Drainage Schemes under OPW control”. The OPW has committed to spending €305,000 on the MulkearLIFE project over the next four years. Staff from the OPW will also be working directly on the project.John Sheehan of Limerick County Council said that his organisation was proud of its associated with MulkearLIFE and stated, “Limerick County Council will be carrying out a range of supporting project actions including bank protection work, in-stream rehabilitation work and a major programme of control and eradication of invasive plant species targeting Giant Hogweed and Japanese Knotweed on the Mulkear River.”Congratulating the MulkearLIFE team on the launch of the project, Martin Territt, Director of the European Commission Representation in Ireland said, “One of the biggest problems affecting our environment is the destruction of eco-systems by invasive species and loss of habitat. The actions being undertaken by the MulkearLIFE team, its partners and the local community should not only help to restore the natural balance in one of the Shannon�s most important tributaries, but it should also become a model for restoring river catchments throughout Europe to their natural state.”


Water too warm for Trout/SalmonFreshwater fish that favor cool water are being hard hit by climate change, researchers say. In a new study of populations in the River Wye in Wales, salmon numbers fell by 50 percent and trout numbers by 67 percent between 1985 and 2004.

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Coaching Irelands Anglers -Tutor Development Courseread more


WILD salmon could vanish from many of Scotland�s riversWILD salmon could vanish from many of Scotland�s rivers unless drastic action is taken to preserve the species, a conservation body has warned.
The Atlantic Salmon Trust, whose patron is the Prince of Wales, said that salmon could disappear from many rivers within just 30 years unless steps are taken to protect the species.read more

The Fraser RiverHaving fished this majestic river a few years ago I could hardly believe the article below recently sent to me by Vincent Duigan. When stocks collapse in rivers of this magnitude the world has to take note.
Climate change is one of the most important factors in the decline of the salmon stocks.read more

Angling Council Of Ireland & Irish Sports CouncilThe Angling Council of Ireland (ACI) is an organisation situated at Sports HQ 13 Joyce Way Park West Business Park Dublin 12. The ACI is jointly funded by the Irish Sports Council for administration purposes and by the affiliated five colleges of angling namely, Salmon and Sea Trout Angling SSTRAI, Trout Angling TAFI, Coarse Angling CAFI, Pike (game) Angling PAFI, finally Sea Angling IFSA. These have been grouped into three categories, Game, Coarse and Sea. Executive Officers from each of the diciplines above form the committee of the Angling Council of Ireland. The ACI Executive is elected from the committee members at the Annual General Meeting.

The ACI is a central non governmental organisation which aims to support each of the disciplines of angling both nationaly and internationaly. The European Anglers Alliance (EEA) (Ireland) is now incorporated into the ACI and as such business and meetings will be coordinated through the ACI office. The EEA represent Ireland at the North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organisation conferences.

From a recreational point of view, coaching coarses are being developed by ACI and a programme will be put in place shortly to roll these coarses out around the country.

The ACI is the central contact point for the various federations i.e. Federations Internationalde Pesce (FIP’s) and the world governing body Confederatsional Internationale de Pesce Sportive (CIPS). In addition ACI have representation on the Irish Specimen Fish Committee.

The Angling Council of Ireland will have a website open shortly where full details of all the important workings of the organisation will be available. All affiliated angling clubs have been requested through their national organisations to pay a €2.00 capitation fee to ACI. It is hoped to appoint a fulltime administrator in the ACI office at Sports HQ shortly.


International Atlantic Salmon Research BoardUnravelling the mysteries of the salmon at sea to promote their recovery

“Finding out why Atlantic salmon are not surviving their sea journey to return to home rivers for spawning is a huge task that cannot be accomplished by one country alone. I am very proud of the leadership NASCO is showing in this critically important area.”
Dr Ken Whelan, IASRB Chairman.
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Why are Salmon Dying at sea?International Project Uses DNA technology to “Fingerprint” Salmon at Sea

A unique international scientific mission, to investigate the increasing mortality of salmon at sea, sails today (Friday 16th May) from the port of Killybegs aboard the Marine Institute�s research vessel RV Celtic Explorer. The project, SALSEA-Merge, will…read more


LETTER TO CLUBS
In its efforts to streamline the inland fisheries sector, the government is in the process of replacing the Central and Regional Fisheries Boards with a new structure. ……..read more

UNREGULATED FISH FARMS THREATEN SALMON PRODUCTION
US – During this year’s Global Week of Action, a week devoted to farmed salmon awareness, the Pew Environment Group raised concern about the creation of fish farms in US waters without adequate uniform national aquaculture standards in place……..read more

HONOURING THE UNSUNG HEROES OF IRISH SPORT
The Federtion of Irish Sports joins forces with the Department of Arts to hold the 2009 National Awards to Volunteers in Sport…….read more

PROPOSED RESTRUCTURING OF THE INLAND FISHERIES SECTOR
As part of the overall rationalisation of State agencies that the Minister for Finance announced in Budget 2009, a new national inland fisheries body is to be established which will replace the existing Central and seven Regional Fisheries Boards…….read more

NEWS – INVASIVE SPECIES


Anglers are asked to be on the lookout for this invasive species.
Recently, the freshwater mysid, Hemimysis anomala, was found at Dromaan Harbour on Lough Derg. This species has not been found before in Ireland. Lough Derg is the most downstream and the largest lake on the Shannon River. An active swarm of H. anomala was recovered from within the shade of a floating tyre, in an area with dense cover of macrophytes, where depths were ~1 m. All this was within a small boating harbour with a slipway where small overland trailered boats can be launched.
For full article…….read more


MARCH 20TH 2009
Minister of State Se�n Power today announced that the Government has approved proposals to restructure the inland fisheries sector……read more

MARCH 20TH 2009
Salmon Watch Ireland awarded costs in case against South Western Regional Fisheries Board……read more

DECEMBER 5TH 2008
SSTRAI affiliated members of the European Anglers Alliance welcomes the news that the European Parliament adopts with an overwhelming majority a resolution on a pan-European Cormorant Management Plan…..read more