Eel fishing support measure moves a step closer - Burke

Support measures for former eel commercial fishermen has moved a step closer, Fine Gael TD for Longford Westmeath Peter Burke has confirmed.

“I have been working with Minister Kyne to establish a fund for over a year now to support eel fishermen who had their license withdrawn and livelihood’s destroyed over night,” stated Deputy Burke.

Ireland’s Eel Management Plan (EMP), including the closure of commercial fishing, was approved, in 2009, by the European Commission under EU Regulation 1100/2007.

“After the Government engaging with the European Commission I now understand the Revenue Commissioners have made a determination on the tax treatment of any payments under such a scheme. It is intended that the scheme will be open to former fishermen who held an Inland Fisheries Ireland eel fishing licence or an equivalent permit from ESB prior to the closure.“ continued Deputy Burke.

“Officials are liaising with IFI and ESB to verify catch records declared by fishermen and I expect that an announcement of the scheme and a call for applications will be made shortly.” concluded Deputy Burke.