asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that many foreign trawlers continue to operate in our waters; that one approached within half a mile of Wexford Bar on 26th November, 1947; that no action was taken against it until a representative of the fishermen drew attention to it; and if he will state whether it is proposed to strengthen our coast line defences against such violations of territorial waters.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Foreign Trawlers.
I am not aware that many foreign trawlers continue to operate in our waters. I am aware, however, that foreign trawlers from time to time operate adjacent to but outside our waters. Occasionally, encroachments on our exclusive fishery limits have taken place and such have been followed by appropriate action.
I am not aware that a foreign trawler approached within half a mile of Wexford Bar on the 26th November last. A telephone message was received on that day in my Department from a representative of Muinntear na Mara, to the effect that a number of foreign trawlers were fishing off the Wexford coast and he was apprehensive lest these trawlers should enter and operate inside territorial waters. About midday on the 27th a further telephonic communication to the effect that trawlers had come within half a mile of Wexford Bay was received. Following on this information a ship was sent to patrol the area.
During this patrol, which commenced on Friday, the 28th, L.E. Cliona reported two foreign trawlers 7½ miles south of the Great Saltee and one 9 miles S.S.W. of Great Saltee. None was seen in Wexford Bay.
I am not clear what the Deputy has in mind in referring to the strengthening of our coast line defences, but if it is intended to suggest that a coast guard organisation should be instituted, I can say that this is not contemplated.
Were any steps taken on the day of the 26th when the report first reached the Minister that foreign trawlers were poaching?
On the 26th?
On the 26th.
I have already stated that on the 26th they did not come within the territorial waters. On the 27th it was reported that one trawler was within half a mile of Wexford Bay.
Does the Minister know that there were 13 of these vessels operating in that area and is the Minister going to permit that to continue?
I have told the Deputy that every appropriate action that could be taken was taken on that occasion and will be taken should the occasion arise in the future.
Mr. Corish
Would the Minister say what he means by territorial waters in relation to fishing?
The three-mile limit is what I mean by territorial waters.