asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries if he is aware of the destruction of spawning fish caused on our southern fishing grounds by Spanish trawlers; if he is aware that the methods used by such trawlers are forbidden in their own country within a limit of 15 miles off the coast owing to their destructiveness; if he is aware that in the coming season over 3,000 Spanish fishermen will be employed in those destructive fishing methods off the southern Irish coast, and if he will take steps, either by way of prevention or by representation to the Spanish Government, to put an end to those activities which are so seriously affecting the interests of fishermen on the West Cork sea-board.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Activities of Spanish Trawlers.
I have no information as to fishery restrictions in Spain or the alleged intention of Spanish fishermen to operate in numbers off our coasts next season. Every precaution will be taken to prevent infringement of our regulations; and if information as to contravention of these regulations by any foreign fishing vessel is furnished to my Department the matter will have immediate attention.
The Parliamentary Secretary cannot but be aware that the Spaniards have been fishing, and fishing very efficiently, off the southern coast for some years past. Not alone that, but this year they are coming in such numbers that they are sending a special hospital ship from Vigo to look after the men. They are fishing in the estuaries of Bantry Bay and Kenmare river, and their numbers have been reported. I am glad that I am getting an assurance from the Minister that something will be done to prevent this, but I have been getting that assurance for the past two years. It is a very serious matter.