asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that a report was made to his Department on 30th March last in connection with a French vessel which was fishing within territorial waters off Brandon pier, County Kerry; and, if so, whether he will now state the reason why it took the fishery protection corvette until 3rd April to arrive in Brandon Bay.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fishery Protection.
I am aware of the report of alleged illegal fishing off Brandon Head on the afternoon of the 30th March.
The corvette Macha which was, at the time, patrolling off the north-west coast of Donegal, reached the area as soon as was practicable, having been delayed by bad weather.