asked the Minister for Fisheries if he is aware that there is no light at the western end of Castletownbere Harbour, and that it is most essential that a light should be erected there for the spring fishing, as small and large boats from the South (Baltimore and Cape) would fish off this coast a month earlier each year if there was a light to guide them back to port; and, further, can he say if a memorial has been received from the local fishermen in the matter.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - LIGHT FOR CASTLETOWNBERE HARBOUR.
I received a memorial in this case signed by certain fishermen. Having, however, considered the matter very carefully in view of the evidence forthcoming, I was convinced that the number of fishing boats using, or likely to use, the harbour at Castletownbere would not be sufficient to justify me in recommending, in the interest of fisheries, a State expenditure of the amount necessary to provide the light sought.
Is the Minister aware that the fishing industry in that port and the number of boats being berthed there is gradually increasing, and that no later than a month ago a trawler was wrecked off the rocks as a result of want of light at the entrance to the harbour? Does the Minister not consider it sufficiently important to provide a light in view of these things?
I am not at all satisfied with the statements of the Deputy. The Irish Lights Commissioners state that the light would cost £1,000, and the upkeep £40 per annum. The Fishery Superintendent for the district informs us that only very few fishermen from the Cape use the place—and that only occasionally—and that the light does not make the slightest difference.
If further evidence is forthcoming that more than a few fishermen use the place, will the Minister reconsider his attitude?
I shall reconsider it, but I am convinced that it is trading vessels and not fishing vessels that are in question in these matters.