asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that the mackerel fishing industry along the Kerry coast was a failure last year; that as a result, the fishermen are unable to replace nets lost last year; if his Department will take steps to supply these fishermen with mackerel nets at a cheap rate; and if he will also see that the delivery of nets and other fishing gear to fishermen is expedited.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Supply of Nets to Kerry Fishermen.
I am aware that the results of last year's mackerel fishery off the Kerry coast were generally unsatisfactory. I have no information as to the stock or condition of nets held by the fishermen concerned. Funds for the provision of fishing gear are not available to my Department, which is, therefore, not in a position to supply mackerel nets at a cheap rate. I am, however, assured that the directors of the Sea Fisheries Association will deal as sympathetically as possible with any applications for such nets that may be submitted to them under the rules of the association. Where any fisherman proposes to purchase gear direct from a cross-Channel manufacturer my Department will, if so requested, do everything possible to have delivery expedited.