asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state what steps he has taken to investigate the claims of the Killaloe fishermen whose occupations have been destroyed through the operations of the Shannon Scheme.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Killaloe Fishermen.
As explained to the Deputy in the letter addressed to him from my office on the 25th February last, I have full information as to the position of the Killaloe fishermen but no power to entertain any claims from them.
Mr. Hogan
Does the Minister deny that these families have a claim in equity? Surely they are as much entitled to compensation— their source of employment having been destroyed—as the riparian owners whom the Minister has compensated.
I cannot pay inequitable claims as the statute forbids it. I am making no decision as to whether they have a claim in equity or not.
Mr. Hogan
Does the Minister expect to reach a decision soon as to whether they have a claim in equity?
A decision need not be taken because I cannot pay.
Mr. Hogan
The Minister will hear more about it.