asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is aware of the almost impossible position of the Greencastle, County Donegal fisherman whose traditional rights to fish an area off the North Derry coast has been challenged and those who find themselves in that fishing area due to fast running tides are being arrested by the British Navy, fined substantial sums and their fishing gear seized; and if, in view of the previous arrangements where the fishermen in County Derry and Greencastle agreed to each other crossing the boundary line between the fishing boards being the only reasonable means to counteract tidal flow, he will make representations to the British authorities concerning the new arrangements which they are enforcing and which are preventing Greencastle fishermen from earning a living and forcing some out of business; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - County Donegal Fishermen.
221.
I am aware that problems have arisen from time to time in the area in question in respect of traditional rights, conservancy regulations and fisheries protection. One case of a Greencastle vessel arrested by a British fishery protection vessel has been raised with me and certain aspects of this case are currently being pursued with the British authorities.