Ulster Unionist DCAL spokesperson, Robin Swann today held an information day at Stormont alongside his Party colleagues, Sandra Overend and Danny Kinahan, so angling groups in Northern Ireland could raise awareness of the diminishing salmon stocks.
 
“I was delighted to host Northern Ireland’s angling bodies at Stormont today.  The information day was intended to raise awareness of the problems angling clubs are facing and to gain cross party support.’
 
“We had a fantastic turnout from MLAs from most parties who all showed support for the issues the anglers were raising.’
 
“Hopefully today’s event can lead to a cross party approach to protecting Northern Ireland’s indigenous fish stocks.’
 
Robin’s comments were supported the angling bodies who attended the event.
 
Ulster Angling Federation
 
“All forms of angling in Northern Ireland support some 780 full time jobs, and are worth around £40million per annum to our local economy.  If this economic benefit is to be maintained and enhanced, the provision of good water quality and satisfactory fish stocks are vital for our fisheries and tourism.’
 
FASTA
 
“The Foyle has massive economic and social benefits for the west of the Province.  We want to see a root and branch review of the governing body overseeing the management of the Foyle system and the mandate of the controlling body should recognise that the fishery has shifted from a commercial fishery to a recreational and sporting fishery.”
 
FISSTA
 
“The most important reason for conserving our indigenous fish population is to promote and development angling tourism in Northern Ireland. “
“The jewel in the angling crown is the Moy River where there are 20,000 surplus fish each year.  I hope that the rest of Northern Ireland can reach these levels in the future.”
 
No Salmon Nets Chairman Seamus Donnelly
 
“The No Salmon Nets welcomed the opportunity to engage with local politicians from all parties.   We were very encouraged by the support and willingness to hear more about our campaign to end salmon netting.’
 
Robin concluded ‘I will continue to work with the above groups and others to highlight the threat to indigenous fish stocks and particularly salmon. I also intend to raise this issue through a Private Members Motion in the Assembly and I would call on the DCAL Minister, Caral Ni Cuillin, to take note of the strength of feeling in this important area.’