Enda Kenny
Question:159 Mr. E. Kenny asked the Minister for the Marine his views on the role of the fisheries protection service; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Fisheries Protection Service.
The fisheries protection service plays a vital role in the policing of Irish waters and the enforcement of fisheries legislation. The Naval Service has a total of seven vessels which are employed principally in fishery patrols; aerial surveillance is provided by the Air Corps using the new Casa aircraft; and the Department of the Marine has 12 sea fishery officers who provide an onshore fisheries surveillance and control service.
There is close liaison between the Departments of the Marine and Defence both at formal level and on a day to day operational level. I am satisfied that this comprehensive fisheries protection service provides for efficient and effective policing of our sea fisheries and ensures adherence to national and EC legislative measures.