asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries what steps his Department are taking to ensure that immature fish are not being caught by the Irish fishing fleet; and how the law is being enforced to ensure that nets of legal mesh only are being used.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fishing Nets.
14.
In accordance with Fisheries (Consolidation) Act, 1959, and orders made thereunder it is illegal for any person to have aboard a fishing vessel any fishing net the mesh size of which does not conform to prescribed standards laid down in respect of fishing in specified areas for certain varieties of fish. In addition, the Act makes it illegal for any person to land, sell or have in his possession, aboard ship or elsewhere, for purposes of sale any undersized fish as defined by order.
Enforcement of the law is ensured by regular inspection of nets and fish by officers of my Department. Where breaches of the law are disclosed it is the practice to take remedial action by way of warning or prosecution, should the nature of the offence so warrant.
Would the Minister say if there were any prosecutions in respect of this?
I am afraid I could not tell the Deputy that at the moment. If he wants the information, I will send it to him.
Could the Minister say approximately how frequently the inspections take place?
I am afraid I have not got that information. There are periodic inspections.