asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state what action he proposes to take for re-establishing and strengthening the fishing industry in the Schull and Castletown-Berehaven areas (County Cork); and if he will consider the immediate appointment of a properly constituted commission representative of all interests in the fishing trade to promote a proper fishing industry.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Schull and Castletown-Berehaven Fishing Industry.
Mr. Collins
I regret that I have not yet had an opportunity of examining fully into the conditions which exit in the fishing industry. I hope to do so soon and I shall then be in a better position to deal with the matters raised by the Deputy.
Mr. Collins
Would the Minister be able to deal immediately with the problem, because of the fact that foreign trawlers are now disposing of fish in an Irish market that the Irish fishing industry could serve?
I do not quite follow the Deputy's question. Is it that there are imports of fish taking place or is it that foreign trawlers are trespassing on our fishing grounds?
Mr. Collins
Foreign trawlers have successfully worked our fishing grounds and are now disposing of their fish in an Irish market.
I can assure the Deputy that if the facts are as he states, I shall urge the Minister for Defence to take the most vigorous measures to see that such trespass is not allowed. I have little doubt that every conceivable precaution has been taken. With regard to the other matter, I would ask for some forbearance until such time as I can reach on the general problem of the fishing industry.