Give salmon licences back, say fishermen

MORE THAN 40 fishermen attended a heated meeting in Ballyhack recently, calling for the lifting of suspensions on salmon fishing licences.

Cllr Michael Whelan, who was in attendance at the meeting in Byrnes pub in Ballyhack, is calling on the minister to address the issue of these suspended licences for salmon fishing. Cllr Whelan said at the meeting 40 plus people involved in the fishing industry – ranging in ages from their mid-20s to 70 years of age – called for the restoration of traditional fishing in Ireland.

A sustainable, traditional fishing industry must now, as a matter of urgency, be re-established, they said.

Cllr Whelan said: ‘With the total failure over the past 12 years, new impartial methods, with the help of overseas expertise, should be introduced. The traditional knowledge, understanding and culture of the legacy fisherman must be respected.’

He said these fishing villages were vibrant villages in the past with the fishermen supporting all the aspects of the community, shops, post offices, schools etc.

‘At a time when rural Ireland is suffering I am asking Minister Creed to listen to these people and understand what they can offer to communities all around Ireland. When fishing communities lose their rights to pass on such important traditions and wisdom, it is time to call a halt.’

A committee was elected at the meeting which laid out a roadmap of actions, starting with a petition and letter.

‘ They are asking everyone to sign up to. They are seeking support from all aspects of rural communities right across the board not just fishing.’