asked the Minister for Agriculture if, in view of the recent destruction through gales and inclement weather to the fishing fleet at Killybegs with resultant unemployment amongst the fishermen, he will request the Irish Sea Fisheries Association to give priority to Killybegs applicants for new boats.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Killybegs Fishing Fleet.
The selection of persons as hire-purchasers of fishing boats is entirely a matter for the committee of management of the association. The committee will, I am sure, do everything possible within the association's rules to replace as soon as practicable the losses recently experienced by members of the association at Killybegs and other places.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that there is considerable unemployment amongst the fishermen in the district as a result of the destruction of these boats on the particular night in December last? Will he personally, or through his Department, make representations to the Sea Fisheries' Association for a first allocation of boats to the fishermen who have been rendered unemployed?
Will the Parliamentary Secretary bear in mind that boats were wrecked in Downings some years ago and that the men there should receive prior consideration?
I will bear the representations of both Deputies in mind. The matter is receiving active attention at the moment.