asked the Minister for Fisheries if the steam trawlers No. 395, the "John Cadigan," and No. 419, the "River Erin," both of Fleetwood, were caught illegally trawling inside the prohibited area, namely, three miles from the shore, at Malin Head, Co. Donegal, within the past week; and if he will state what steps are being taken to have the masters of these trawlers prosecuted.
CEISTEANNA.—QUESTIONS. [ORAL ANSWERS.] - ILLEGAL TRAWLING.
A report has been received that two Fleetwood steam trawlers, with names resembling those mentioned in the question, were found illegally trawling on the 6th instant in the neighbourhood of Malin Head. The exact place of the offence is not given in the report in either case, and inquiries are being made with a view to the papers being sent to the Chief State Solicitor for appropriate action if the evidence available should warrant it.
I would like to ask the Minister if there are any patrol boats at present operating on the Northern coast line?
We have only one patrol boat, and that is the "Muirchu," in the Ministry of Fisheries and at the moment its location is in the south.
Does the Minister consider that one patrol boat is sufficient to control the illegalities of these foreign trawlers?
I am quite satisfied it is not sufficient.
Could there not be provision made for more patrol boats?
The Minister for Finance, I am afraid, has a lot to say on that matter.