asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he intends to introduce proposals for legislation to deal with the several fisheries in Saorstát Eireann, and the vested rights arising therefrom, and if so, whether he intends to provide for compensation ex gratia or otherwise for the putative owners of such fisheries or rights.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Several Fisheries Legislation.
Dr. Ryan
Legislative proposals dealing with inland fisheries generally are in course of preparation. I am not yet in a position to make a statement on any particular aspect of these proposals; but, once they have been formulated, all concerned will be afforded reasonable time for an examination of them.
Will the Minister, before introducing any measure, consider the position of riparian owners on the Rivers Lee and Blackwater? The Minister must be aware that a few anomalies exist in both cases.
Dr. Ryan
I can certainly promise the Deputy that the Lee and Blackwater will get as much consideration as any other river in Ireland.
Will the Minister receive a deputation, before introducing the Bill, from these riparian owners on the River Blackwater, because a rather peculiar position exists there? The Minister must already be aware of the position around Lismore, near the Duke of Devonshire's place. I would ask the Minister before introducing legislation to hear those representatives who have vested interests in the place.
Dr. Ryan
I would be glad to discuss that with the Deputy at any time.
Is the Minister in a position to say whether this contemplated legislation will deal retrospectively with the cases of fisheries the extinction of which by judicial decision has given rise to the present situation?
Dr. Ryan
I cannot answer that question at the moment.
The Minister will bear that aspect of the question in mind when the legislation is being drawn?
Dr. Ryan
Yes.