asked the Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestry the powers private investigators, working for fishing interests in a private capacity, have in relation to the confiscation of fishing nets; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Private Water Keepers.
58.
A private water keeper appointed in accordance with section 294 of the Fisheries (Consolidation) Act, 1959, has all the powers of an "authorised person" as set out in Part XVIII of the Act, within the confines of the fisheries specified in his instrument of appointment. Under the Act the appointment must be confirmed by any District Justice within whose district such water keeper is appointed to act. These powers include the power to seize any unlawful fishing engine for example a net or any lawful fishing engine which is being unlawfully used.