Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA, Jemma Dolan, has warned that cuts to funding for the Fermanagh Classic Fishing Festival has put the future of the event “at risk”.

Ms Dolan of Sinn Féin is the latest of a growing number of voices speaking out against the decision.

Her fellow MLA for Fermanagh and South Tyrone, Deborah Erskine of the DUP, last week in a debate at the Assembly urged the Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), Andrew Muir, to intervene.

Ms Dolan stated that she has written to the Minister requesting him to reinstate funding in order to save the Fermanagh Classic Fishing Festival.

She said: “The Fermanagh Classic Fishing Festival is a key event in our local tourism calendar, attracting anglers from across Ireland, Britain and beyond.

“It provides a significant boost to our economy, supporting local businesses, hospitality, and tourism providers.

“The loss of funding puts the future of this long-standing festival at risk.

“I have written to the Minister urging him to reinstate this vital support to ensure the festival continues to thrive and benefit our community.

“Sinn Féin will continue to stand up for rural communities and support events that promote tourism, local jobs, and economic growth in Fermanagh South Tyrone.”

In response to Ms Dolan's comments, a DAERA spokesman said: “The Minister recognises the positive impact of the angling competitions and the wider benefits that this brings to the local economy.

“Whilst budget pressures have unfortunately required a reduction in outreach activity, the Department will continue to support the Fermanagh Classic and the Pike Classic by making the Public Angling Estate available for use.

“Officials have had constructive engagement with Fermanagh and Omagh District Council to enable support for the Fermanagh Classic. The Department will subsequently engage with the organisers of the Erne Pike Classic to agree arrangements.”