asked the Minister for Defence if any representations have been made to him by Donegal fishermen regarding the lack of fishery protection vessels to protect fishery stocks; if his attention has been drawn to reports (details supplied) on this matter; the action he proposes to take in view of the fact that the vessel normally assigned to the Donegal area is out of service and undergoing a major overhaul; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Fishery Protection.
37.
Representations were made to me in November 1980 by a representative of the Killybegs Fishermen's Association and I am aware of the related press report. The area in question has been constantly patrolled both by Naval Service vessels and Air Corps aircraft throughout the current period of fishing activity. In November a total of ten foreign fishing vessels were boarded and searched but the reports of illegal fishing could not be substantiated.
Naval Service patrol vessels are not assigned to any particular fishery area. Three different patrol vessels of the Naval Service were in the Donegal area in recent weeks.