asked the Minister for Agriculture if he has as yet coordinated plans with the Department of Defence for the implementation of sea fishery protection by the use of our Air Corps.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sea Fishery Protection.
I understand that the Minister for Defence, who is responsible for the sea fishery protection service, has this matter under consideration and it is suggested that the Deputy should address his question to him at a later date.
In view of the fact that what might be termed the poaching season for foreign trawlers is now fast approaching, would he consider liaison between his Department and the Department of Defence to expedite the implementation of sea fisheries protection by corvettes and by the Air Corps?
Could the Parliamentary Secretary say whether any advance has been made towards supplying a helicopter watching service to prevent poaching by foreign trawlers?
The Deputies, I am sure, will appreciate that the fisheries branch have no responsibility in the matter of the protection service beyond passing on to the Department of Defence complaints and representation they receive in the matter.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary consider invoking the assistance of the Parliamentary Secretary to the Government for the co-ordination of the activities of Government Departments? Perhaps Deputy Lynch would launch the helicopters in those areas?