asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that large quantities of fresh fish are beingsmuggled into the Republic under the guise of being the legitimate catch of a Republican registered fishing boat; and, if so, what steps he proposes to take to prevent this practice, which is detrimental to our inshore fishermen.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Smuggling of Fish.
I am not aware of the illegal landing of fish as indicated in the question. If the Deputy will furnish me with particulars of any such cases, I shall have the matter investigated forthwith.
Would the Minister consult the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Agriculture on the matter? He might perhaps be able to enlighten him.
It is the Deputy who has made the allegation and it is up to him to substantiate it.
I am not making any allegation. I am merely asking a question.
There is no virtue in asking a question unless you are prepared to substantiate the implication in the question.
Perhaps I may be able to do that, too.