asked the Minister for Defence if he will consider setting up a Coast Watching Service from Arklow to Carnsore Point, County Wexford, in view of the fact that ships have been wrecked and lives lost owing to the absence of a proper service along this dangerous part of the coast.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Coast Watching Service.
I am not prepared to consider setting up a Coast Watching Service from Arklow to Carnsore Point, County Wexford. The protection of shipping along this or any other portion of the coast is not a matter for my Department. I understand that a Coast Life Saving Service already exists under the control of the Department of Industry and Commerce which renders aid to ships in distress along the coast.
Is the Minister aware that some months ago a ship was lost owing to having no life-saving service on this coast, and in the present state of affairs there is no one but the local men to go out on a wild, rough night if they are called? If a service was set up it would save life on that particular coast, and I think it is most necessary.