asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the various requests made to his Department for the equipping and manning of the look-out posts at Bolus or Reenard, Ballinskelligs and Bray Head, Valentia Island, to prevent loss of life and to help to protect the territorial waters from foreign poachers and if he is now prepared to accede to the demands of local residents and fishermen.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Manning of Look-out Posts.
I am aware that representations have been made from time to time in this matter. As I indicated in reply to a previous question by the Deputy the general organisation of the Coast Life-Saving Service and the question of the points at which watches should be maintained in bad weather are under review. All relevant factors will be taken into account when coast life-saving requirements on the Kerry coast are under consideration.
The prevention of poaching by foreign trawlers within the exclusive fishing limits is a matter for the Minister for Defence who, I understand, is satisfied that the present machinery for reporting the presence of foreign fishing vessels within the exclusive fishing limits is adequate.