Despite suggestions that the government was moving towards a compromise after criticism of the Independent Salmon Group's report by Fianna Fail TDs in coastal areas, sources insist this weekend that the option of a voluntary buyout, rather than a compulsory end to drift-netting, is "not a runner".

The sources said the scientific advice was absolutely clear that drift-netting had to stop to conserve declining salmon stocks. They believe the only possible compromise is a moratorium of perhaps three years for fishermen who opted not to take compensation to stop drift-netting. If the ban was not lifted after three years, the fishermen could apply to the hardship fund for compensation.

It is believed the Department of Marine would be reluctant to agree to this as it would merely postpone the argument over drift-netting and could involve higher claims for compensation in three years' time. However, because it would achieve the goal of ending drift-netting, it might be considered as a means of assuaging concerned backbenchers.

Other sources were speculating this weekend that the government might look to "combine a conservation route with an element of volunteerism", but, given the emphatic nature of the scientific advice, this is unlikely to be acceptable to cabinet.