HL Deb 04 March 1982 vol 427 cc1444-5WA
Lord Blease

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland will make a statement about the Report of the Committee of Inquiry into Angling in Northern Ireland, presented to the Government in March 1981; and when a public response by the Northern Ireland Office may be expected concerning the main recommendations contained in the report; especially:—

  1. (i) the proposal for the establishment of a new Inland Fisheries Board for Northern Ireland;
  2. (ii) that further research should be promoted into the biology of pollen in Lough Neagh;
  3. (iii) the undertaking of a field assessment of all fish stocks in Lough Erne;
  4. (iv) to provide additional protection for salmon fisheries;
  5. (v) the undertaking of the proposal concerning water pollution inspection services; and
  6. (vi) the provision of an accelerated programme for the improvement of sewage disposal works and the promotion of anti-eutrophication measures.

The Minister of State, Northern Ireland Office (The Earl of Gowrie)

My right honourable friend the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland is not yet in a position to make a statement about the report of the Committee of Inquiry into Angling in Northern Ireland. My honourable friend the Minister of State responsible for fishery matters in Northern Ireland is currently engaged in a programme of consultation with representatives of those who have an interest in inland fisheries and decisions cannot be taken until this process has been completed. It remains the objective of Her Majesty's Government to reach a decision on the main recommendations of the report at the earliest date consistent with their commitment fully to consider the many and sometimes conflicting views of those who have a legitimate interest in this matter.

The more detailed recommendations will be dealt with after a decision has been taken on the report's main recommendation concerning the future structure of fisheries administration.