asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries whether he will provide a bounty on exports of shellfish so as to secure employment for the men engaged in this industry in the Gaeltacht.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shellfish Exports.
I am not aware of any grounds at present necessitating assistance to the shellfish industry other than that already given through the Sea Fisheries Association in the cases of mussels and periwinkles. I have the position under observation.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that a large number of fishermen, who will otherwise join the ranks of the unemployed, can get five months' good employment out of the lobster fishing if he will furnish them with a bounty on the export of this fish; and that if he does not arrange for a bounty on the exports no lobster fishing will be done on the Donegal coast this year because they will not be worth catching?
Did I understand the Parliamentary Secretary to say that there was a bounty given by the Sea Fisheries Association on mussels and periwinkles?
In reply to Deputy Dillon, I should like to state that the matter is having careful consideration and the question of a bounty on lobsters is being considered. In reply to Deputy O'Neill, I shall just repeat my reply to Deputy Dillon's question (Reply read). The price this year has been maintained at the same level as last year.
There was no assistance given by the Sea Fisheries Association.