A LOCAL fisherman is up in arms over the ban on traditional fishing methods and boat angling imposed by The Shannon Regional Fisheries Board on the lower Shannon river.
Andrew Reale, of Garryowen, picketed outside the recent Fisheries Board conference entitled ‘Shannon Waters’ held at the Strand Hotel, against the prohibitions, which he feels, are making it impossible for Limerick city to develop an angling tourism industry.
“From 2007, the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board imposed the restrictions on the lower Shannon river, near limerick city. The most significant effect was felt by anglers with disabilities and senior anglers with mobility problems,” said Mr. Reale.
“A ban on worm angling means that older anglers who find it tiring to spin or fly fish can’t enjoy their hobby.
“Most fishermen I have spoken to feel the fisheries board has a negative opinion of Limerick city anglers and their new policing strategy aggressively targets them”
Mr. Reale continued that Limerick fishermen feel that the heavy handed approach of fisheries officers is designed to push anglers into conflict, thus leading to on the spot fines and criminal convictions.
Mr. Reale explained: “Traditionally, boats and angling have been a part of Limerick city life, as a hobby or a way to make a living. It has been integral to our culture. Indeed, no other angling community had given more to the state when the Shannon scheme ended a way of life for generations of abbey fishermen. Is it fair to ask us to give up what we have left?”.
He added that the reason given by the board for the banning of traditional boats was for security purposes.
The local, who pursues fishing as a hobby and throws his catches back into the water, said that in all the years when the ESB policed the river they respected city anglers and were impartial to all. He added that there is now a lack of confidence in the fisheries management among Limerick fishermen.
“It’s time all city anglers joined forces to fight for equality. These restrictions have made it impossible for Limerick city to develop an angling tourism industry. As we all know, times are hard and our city needs the same chance as those upriver”.
Mr. Reale concluded by calling on city councillors to join city anglers in their fight for equality.
The Limerick Post contacted CEO of the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board, Eamon Cusack, for a response to Mr. Reale’s comments, and he responded: “The laws are in place to conserve salmon, numbers of which have declined drastically. This is as a result of a number of circumstances, including climate change, water pollution, and drainage. We are aspiring to maintain the best possible environment for fish.
“Fishing is permitted from the Plassey to the city and by-laws regarding bans are reviewed at the end of each season. We work with the angling club and meet regularly with them. There is a mutual understanding that although nobody likes curtailments, these bans need to be in place to maintain fish stocks”.
