asked the Minister for Agriculture whether iron spikes have been fixed in certain stretches of the River Foyle by the Foyle Fishery Commission, and, if so, why; whether the spikes are a danger to boats on the river, and whether warning notices have been erected.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Foyle River Spikes.
I am informed by the commission that stakes have been fixed in the river bed as a measure of protection against illegal net fishing in certain waters in the upper reaches of the River Foyle which are closed to net fishing under regulations made by the commission and which have been often raided by poachers. The maximum projection above the bed of the river is two feet and there is a minimum clearance of four feet at low water above the top of any stake. The commission is satisfied that where the stakes are located they do not constitute any danger to boats and warning notices have not accordingly been erected.
Is the Minister aware that in the present very dry spell the level of the river is much lower than normal and that there is danger for boats which are not on illegal business bound in passing over these places?
I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that there is a considerable number of nocturnal peripatetic persons who would be very grateful for notices indicating clearly where these stakes are placed. The purpose is to put the stakes where they do not expect to find them. The Deputy may rest assured that the subject is kept under constant review so as to ensure that, whatever the level of the water is, they constitute no menace to legitimate traffic on those waters.