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SHANNON SALMON FISHERIES VERDICT: Judicial Committee Upholds By-Laws Amidst Appeals | Limerick Archives

SHANNON SALMON FISHERIES VERDICT: Judicial Committee Upholds By-Laws Amidst Appeals

In a significant development, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in Dublin has confirmed its decision on several contentious matters related to salmon and trout fishing in parts of the Limerick district. The committee’s deliberations included considerations on the following issues: (1) the establishment of by-laws for salmon and trout fishing in specific areas of the Limerick district; (2) the use of soap nets in tidal waters of the River Shannon and its tributaries; and (3) the determination of the close season for salmon and trout in the Rivers Ballynahinch, Cleeve, Furness, and Inver.

Following a thorough examination, the Lord Chancellor revealed that the committee would advocate in favour of both proposed by-laws. Of particular note was the committee’s affirmation of a by-law from September 1210, which modified the close season for capturing salmon and trout using single rods and lines in the mentioned rivers, forming the crux of the Limerick appeals.

The Abbey Net Fisheries’ Guild expressed concerns about the potential repercussions of the proposed alteration to the salmon and trout season on the River Shannon. They contended that the change would inflict significant harm on a considerable number of stakeholders. During the proceedings, Thomas Clancy, representing the fishermen, provided testimony. Arguments were presented on behalf of riparian owners, emphasizing the potential calamity if snap nets were permitted to operate over spawning grounds before the 12th of February.

Witnesses, including Mr Ingham and Lord Massy, provided evidence during the hearings. A. W. Williams, Esq., acting on behalf of Mr Wray, represented the Abbey Net Fisheries’ Guild. The fisheries, constructed by Mr A. Blood Smyth, came under scrutiny for their impact on local waterways and creameries. Mr W. O. Gibson, supported by Mr A. Lane Joynt, acted for the Lax Weir and Fisheries Company, endorsing the proposed by-laws. H. L. Hodgson of Oughterard, a petitioner in the rod and line appeal, raised concerns about the potential adverse effects of altering the fishing season to run exclusively from October 1st to January 31st. F. C. Somber, the lessee of certain fisheries in the Connemara district, also opposed the proposed changes. Represented by Mr Phelps, instructed by Messrs. Montgomery and Phaytor, they contested the alterations during the proceedings.

The proposed adjustment to the fishing season, limiting catches to the period between October 1st and January 31st, drew criticism from Hodgson, who argued that it would negatively impact his fishing activities. F. C. Somber, a lessee in the Connemara district, echoed these concerns.

Amidst the legal arguments and counterarguments, the verdict upholding the proposed by-laws is expected to have far-reaching implications for the region’s fishing communities. The committee’s decision to support the regulations demonstrates a commitment to the preservation of local ecosystems and sustainable fishing practices. However, the dissenting voices, particularly from those in the fishing industry, underscore the challenges of finding a balance between conservation efforts and the economic interests of those dependent on the region’s fisheries.

The outcome of these deliberations is likely to set a precedent for future discussions surrounding fisheries management and conservation efforts in Limerick and beyond. As the fishing industry grapples with the ever-present tension between environmental conservation and economic viability, the decision by the Judicial Committee will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of fishing practices and regulations in the region for years to come.

Irish Independent – Friday 20 October 1911

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