asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if arrangements have been made for the holding of the elections for membership of boards of conservators in October; and, if not, why.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Boards of Conservators Elections.
11.
I hope to have a decision on this matter shortly.
When does the Parliamentary Secretary hope to have a decision on this?
As I indicated in my reply, a decision will be made on this matter shortly.
Can the Parliamentary Secretary give any reason for the delay?
I have again and again in this House given reasons for the delay. I do not want to be taking up the time of the House repeating the reason this afternoon but, if the Deputy wants them, of course I will facilitate him.
I should like to hear the reasons.
I do not think it is necessary.
Question No. 12, please.
The Deputy must appreciate that we were awaiting a number of reports which did not come to hand as early as had been expected, particularly one from the Inland Fisheries Commission which we awaited a number of years. All of those reports have come to hand and are being assessed. In the light of the assessment made, legislation will be introduced to update our fishery laws, I expect, in the course of the Autumn session.
Is it not a fact that the Parliamentary Secretary has had that report for over a year? Is it not time he made up his mind as to what he is going to do?
Might I ask a supplementary?
(Interruptions.)
Order.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary inform the House of the dates on which he received the reports he mentioned?
That information was not sought in the question. If the Deputy requires specific information he should put down a question.
(Interruptions.)
Could I have an answer?
Order, Deputy Murphy.
Before the Parliamentary Secretary circulates his proposals by way of a Bill to the House, will there be anything from the Minister by way of a White Paper so that we can ascertain in advance what the line should be? Will we have anything before we see the Bill?
I doubt if it will be necessary to do so because numerous consultations have taken place between all the interested parties.
Would it be possible to get a summary of those negotiations and discussions?
I will consider that possibility. It would mean further delay.
It would be very useful.
The type of legislation that we bring into the House will be——
You will not be here to bring it in.
We will be here. I am here 25 years and I will be here when my namesake has disappeared.
Order. Could we please get on with the questions?