asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether any satisfactory arrangement has been reached between the E.S.B. and the Ballyshannon fishermen in regard to the latter's complaint concerning conditions under which they must fish in the Erne estuary.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Erne Estuary Fishermen.
I am informed by the E.S.B. that there has been no change in the position as indicated in my reply to a previous question by the Deputy on 23rd June, 1954.
Is the Minister aware that the fishermen have organised themselves locally and made representations to the E.S.B. to meet them with regard to devising some means whereby fishing could be conducted more satisfactorily this year, and would the Minister use his good offices in trying to get both parties to agree on a working arrangement?
If I thought anything I could do would help to improve the fishing possibilities I would be only too glad to do it, but as I explained to the Deputy on a previous occasion, that flooding of the estuary is necessary for the efficient operation of the Erne station and the board then informed me that it was not feasible to vary the flow conditions of the water in such a manner as to suit the fishermen's requirements. The board subsequently informed me that they have no option but to release the flood waters, owing to the high rainfall and the operation of drainage schemes in Northern Ireland. It is necessary to keep these stations working efficiently but if, however, it is found that anything could be done to help the local fishermen, and if the Deputy would indicate any way in which I could help, I should be only too glad to do so.
Is the Minister aware that the fishermen feel that the E.S.B. is not anxious to meet them or to accede to their request so that the flow—I think they have taken technical advice on this—could be so arranged as to take place at times when it would be of minimum hindrance to the fishermen? And that is not an important matter for the E.S.B.
Do I understand from the Deputy that arrangements have been made by the fishermen to see the E.S.B.?
No, I am afraid they are not getting much satisfaction in their efforts. They thought that the Minister's intervention would be timely now.
I shall look into the matter further.