Swann warns of ‘angling catastrophe’
Thursday, 2 February 2012
North Antrim UUP MLA Robin Swann and Keith Turner MEP watch as Stormont Executive Minister, Danny Kennedy, signs the pledge to support the future of responsible fishing in Northern Ireland.
Ballymena-based Mr Swann, issued his warning as he challenged the Executive Minister to "return the serve by doing something positive for the angling community".
The Kells politician has backed anglers' calls for the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure to "do more for the sustainability of our indigenous fish species, including salmon, in the wake of massive support for the No To Salmon Nets Campaign" (NTSN).
Mr Swann added: "The campaign was started by 15 concerned anglers, chaired by Moyola angler Seamus Donnelly and from the initial 15, it has grown into a group which has standing room only at their meetings.
“The NTSN group is lobbying to have the last remaining nets removed from the North Coast of Antrim which are being fished in direct contravention of the European habitats directive and North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organisation (NASCO) protocols.
“I am also raising issues that are of concern in my own constituency as well as other areas that benefit from Lough Neagh.
“At this time, all fish species from eels to salmon are depreciating and unless action is taken quickly, the Lough will be adversely altered with catastrophic effects for the whole eco system."
Mr Swann issued his warning after attending an information event in Stormont.
Various angling groups and supporters were represented, including; NTSN, MEPs, UAF, FISSTA, FASTA, Disabled Anglers, and The Honourable Irish Society.
Around 40 MLAs from all the main parties heard what the different groups had to say and were impressed with the depth of knowledge and commitment shown by everyone they spoke to.
Mr Swann added: "Of particular interest to myself and my fellow MLAs was the amount of tourist revenue which was being lost through the neglect of DCAL to protect the fish stocks and the public needs to know how desperate the situation has become."
Mr Swann has also proposed a motion for debate in the Assembly as his campaign shifts into top gear.
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