I would refer the Deputy to the very comprehensive reply which my predecessor gave the House on 6 November 1991 concerning the implementation of the recommendations of the Ballycotton report. He outlined, at that time, the progress which had been made as regards the equipping, training, and the establishment of operational criteria to ensure the safe operation of sea patrols. Subsequently an additional £250,000 was allocated to the fisheries boards to cover safety expenditure costs.
Since coming to office I informed the House on 26 February 1992 of measures taken in relation to the safety of staff following the Ballycotton report.