asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware of the presence of a large number of foreign trawlers on the west coast; that they are fishing within the three-mile limit and that some of them have been obstructing the local lobster fishermen; and if he will provide immediate and adequate protection for the local fishermen.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fishery Ground Protection.
I am aware of the presence recently off the west coast of a number of foreign fishing vessels. I am not aware that these vessels were fishing in territorial waters or that they had obstructed local fishermen. An additional vessel is being assigned for fishery protection duty.
Is the Minister aware that a number of these trawlers have been fishing in daylight between Shark Island and the mainland, quite obviously within the three-mile limit?
Perhaps the official source of information has not seen it.
The Minister is aware that there are far more Irish vessels on fishing protection duty at the moment than ever before and that they are vigilant and alert and anxious to prevent poaching. The suggestion in the supplementary question is a grave indictment of the naval officers and others concerned. I have trust and confidence in them and I am increasing the number of such vessels. I cannot do any more.
Is the Minister not aware that there has been a large increase in the number of foreign trawlers, particularly from the Continent, since the end of the war, owing to the shortage of food on the Continent, and those people are in such a desperate plight for food that they do not mind breaking any law, and our boats cannot be in two places at the same time? Is he aware that a number of these trawlers appear regularly over a period, and would he not consider placing some patrol boats in that vicinity until the problem has been dealt with there?
There is a big increase in the number of foreign trawlers fishing off our coasts. There is not a great increase in the number fishing inside territorial waters, but there is some increase and I am increasing the number of protective vessels that are on duty to protect our fisheries.
Has the Minister considered the use of our airplanes and our air force to spot these trawlers, if this matter is brought to their attention? Has the usefulness of our airplanes in this matter been tested?
The air force do carry out certain patrols, but the air force is not so reliable, from the point of whether vessels are inside or outside territorial waters. They do report the presence of trawlers.
Is not the Minister aware that, to a large extent, the cart is being put before the horse? Do we not want to increase our own fishing facilities as well as to increase the protection available?
Well, that is not for me.