asked the Minister for Lands if he will encourage fishermen, by means of grants, to form co-operative societies for the marketing of their catches direct; and whether it is possible to procure further external markets for fish, and, if so, where.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Marketing of Fish.
The organisation of co-operative societies is primarily a matter for the Irish Agricultural Organisation Society, Ltd. An Bord Iascaigh Mhara is empowered, however, under its general functions to develop and further co-operative dealing with especial reference to the collection, transportation, distribution and sale of fish and fish products and any suggestions made to me in that regard for particular areas will have my best attention. As to the second part of the question, I see no reason why this country should not engage successfully in greater degree in the fish export trade. I find that private enterprise has been energetically pursuing various possibilities in this direction with every suitable form of assistance from official sources, and the Deputy may rest assured that I shall take any necessary steps that may be open to me to further the exploration of export markets.
What class of fish does the Minister at present plan for our export markets, other than pelagic fish?
I could deal with that on the Estimate.
The Minister has not done it so far. Maybe he will.