Protests mark opening of salmon season

THE opening of the salmon fishing season in Killarney, Co Kerry, yesterday was marked by protests by local anglers which followed similar protests recently in other parts of the country.

Up to 20 anglers, including officers of three local angling clubs, mounted their protest at Flesk bridge, carrying placards and handing out stickers calling for an end to salmon drift netting.

They said they wanted to highlight their “increasing anger and frustration” at Government policies. They also claimed there was mismanagement of salmon stocks and attempts to deprive clubs of their leases on the Flesk and Laune rivers.