asked the Minister for Lands if he is aware of the unrest amongst fishermen and their complete lack of confidence in An Bord Iascaigh Mhara as at present constituted; and, if so, if he will take steps to ensure that the fishermen as such will receive proper representation on the Board.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fishermen's Representation on Bord Iascaigh Mhara.
135.
Mr. O'Donnell
I am aware that a small number of fishermen have recently expressed dissatisfaction with An Bord Iascaigh Mhara in particular instances. While the fishermen's desire for representation on the Board will be borne in mind, I should point out that members of the Board are not appointed in a representative capacity.
136.
asked the Minister for Lands whether his attention has been drawn to reports of a meeting of East Coast fishermen on 29th October, where resolutions were passed complaining of the lack of fishermen's representation on An Bord Iascaigh Mhara and expressing utter dissatisfaction with recent fish prices and the increasing imports of foreign fish in the Dublin fish market; and whether he will take steps to increase fishermen's representation on the Board, and to control the importation of foreign fish while Irish fish is available.
137.
asked the Minister for Lands if he is aware that at a mass public meeting of the East Coast fishermen a unanimous vote of no confidence in An Bord Iascaigh Mhara was passed and that serious dissatisfaction was expressed with the whole marketing organisation; and, if so, what action he proposes to take in the matter.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I shall take Questions Nos. 136 and 137 together.
I have seen reports of a meeting and met representatives of the fishermen concerned. The various points raised are being borne in mind in reviewing the problems of the fishing industry.