11/08/2026
We have been notified that Fingal County Council wish to amend the Beach/Foreshore bye-laws 2026. This could have serious implications for sea angling in North Dublin. The proposed amendments are currently open for public consultation.
Reading between the lines, it would appear that it is proposed to ban fishing in any designated swimming areas in north Dublin. This would include Portmarnock and Donabate Beach, the two premier angling beaches.
The by-law also proposes that no fishing be allowed in any Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) or Special Protection Areas (SPA). This would cover areas including Baldoyle, Donabate, Howth, Malahide Estuary, Rogerstown Estuary.
Angling in these areas has been carried out for centuries and it is a huge recreational resource. While it is imperative that wildlife, the environment and beach users be protected, with the adoption of various measures e.g. designated fishing areas, there is no reason why everybody cannot enjoy the fantastic Fingal coastline.
If implemented, this could potentially have a ‘knock on’ effect for all other SAC’s and SPA’s countrywide.
We would encourage all anglers and outdoor users to make a submission to Fingal County Council using the link below. Submissions can be made until 4.30pm, Wednesday 2nd September 2026.
https://consult.fingal.ie/en/consultation/proposed-amendment-fingal-county-council-beachforeshore-bye-laws-2006?fbclid=IwY2xjawTnyKZwZG9mA2V4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkDzQwOTk2MjYyMzA4NTYwOQABHkNET4ad4WA6K3iS0Jj5sjamZ3vobM4q4RQsy1W7IkuWVLmHcM_NW662cG_6_aem_U2eGb9KtEjZX5JklrXjXHA
