asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if he will make a statement on the arrest and release of the Dutch fishing vessel Franz Vrolitzk; whether he is aware of concern at the circumstances surrounding the manner in which this entire incident was handled; and if representations were made by the Dutch Government or any other Dutch authorities in this matter.
Written Answers . - Arrest of Dutch Fishing Vessel .
363.
: The decision in this case was one for the Attorney General who is the prosecuting authority under the Fisheries (Amendment) Act, 1978. I am informed that the Attorney General decided, after consideration of all the relevant circumstances, not to proceed with the case. It is the long standing practice that the Attorney General does not give reasons for his decisions not to prosecute in particular cases, and accordingly the Attorney General has indicated that no such reasons can be given in this instance.
It is appropriate to mention that there have been other cases in which Irish boats have been detained and brought into port by the Naval Service but have subsequently been released on the directions of the Attorney General. Reasons for the decisions taken were, equally, not given, and would not be given, in such cases.