asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to a report (details supplied) indicating the probability of greater efforts being made by the Dutch fishing fleet to increase herring catches off Dunmore East; and what contingency plans his Department have prepared to deal with any encroachments of territorial waters.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Encroachments of Territorial Waters.
53.
I have seen the report referred to by the Deputy. While the report does indicate the probability that the Dutch fishing fleet may, in future, fish for herrings off the south coast of Ireland more extensively than was the case last season, it does not imply that such fishing would be carried on illegally within our fishery limits.
Due cognisance will, however, be taken of the report by the Naval Service in arranging its programme of fishery patrols.