Transfer of Fisheries Conservancy Board functions

From 1 June 2009 all the functions, staff and assets of the Fisheries Conservancy Board (FCB) will transfer to the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL).

The FCB was established in 1966 with responsibility for the conservation and protection of the salmon and inland fisheries of Northern Ireland, other than those which fall within the responsibility of the Lough's Agency. The functions of the FCB included the issuing of fishing licences, enforcement of fishing regulations and byelaws and assisting in the investigation of pollution incidents which involve fish kills.

Abolition of the FCB is consistent with the review of Public Administration’s (RPA) aim of reducing the number of public bodies and creates opportunities to streamline decision making and the regulatory process. The transfer of FCB functions will mean that policy responsibility and enforcement personnel will now be under the one management system resulting in a more integrated and strategic conservation and protection service.

Notes to Editors:

1. All media enquiries should be addressed to the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure Press Office. Tel 028 9051 5045 or email press.office@dcalni.gov.uk. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.