asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that extensive fishing, by foreign trawlers, over the fishing grounds around Wexford, is causing considerable losses to the fishermen in some areas of Wexford; that lobsters are removed from lobster pots by these foreign trawlers; and if he will take steps to provide better protection for the fisheries along this coastline.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Protection of Wexford Coast Fisheries.
From time to time complaints reach my Department as to the presence of foreign vessels on the fishing grounds off the Wexford coast, but generally it is not made clear whether they are operating within our exclusive fishery limits. All such complaints are, however, promptly transmitted to the Department of Defence, which is now responsible for the fishery patrol service. I have no information about the alleged removal of fish from lobster pots.
I live near the sea and I am astonished to see the number of foreign trawlers that come within the three miles' limit. When the unfortunate fishermen go out to lift their lobster pots, the birds have flown. Will the Minister see that something is done to protect our fishermen and prevent this extensive fishing by foreign trawlers over the Wexford fishing grounds?
Mr. Corish
Can the Minister say if the Department of Defence are investigating this matter?
The Department of Defence are responsible for the fishery patrol service and I understand they are very actively interested in this matter.