THE Government is proposing to ban all eel fishing in Irish waters from next July.
The proposal is part of an EU-wide initiative to regenerate eel stocks which are said to be in a critical state across Europe. Pollution, hydroelectric schemes and commercial exploitation in some areas are cited as the main reasons for poor stock levels.
The measure would be reviewed every three years, but scientists expect that it could take up to 90 years for populations to recover.
The ban would extend across the Border in the northwest, where the Erne river basin is jointly managed.
However, it would not affect one of Europe's largest commercial eel fisheries in Lough Neagh, where stocks are said to be relatively healthy.
The Joint Oireachtas Committee on European Affairs was informed of the plan yesterday by the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.
The department's eel management plan proposes ceasing commercial eel fishing and closing the market, improving water quality of habitats, taking measures to ensure upstream migration of juvenile eel at barriers and mitigation of the impact of hydro-electric power.
About 100 tonnes of eel is harvested in the State by some 295 eel licence holders, and the total value of the catch is between €500,000 and €750,000.
All regional fisheries boards were required to submit proposals to the national plan, which have to be lodged with Brussels by December 31st.
The proposed ban has to be approved by Minister of State with responsibility for Natural Resources, Seán Power, before submission to Brussels.