asked the Minister for Lands if he has made any offer to the fishermen for the fish landed at Galway harbour; and, if so, if he will state with what result.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fish Landings at Galway.
It is not a matter for me to make an offer to fishermen for fish landed at Galway or elsewhere. I understand, however, that An Bord Iascaigh Mhara made inquiries at Galway but that supplies are not yet available at prices which would enable processing to be undertaken on an economic basis. As I said in a reply to the Deputy on 3rd June last, any assistance he can give by encouraging the local fishermen to increase their landings will be appreciated.
The Minister in this House told us that he had 50 per cent. landings which would enable the factory to produce. What interest has the Minister shown to get these landings for the fish factory by giving the fish prices the Dublin merchants are giving?
The prevailing price for fish makes it unattractive for Galway fishermen to sell their fish to An Bord Iascaigh Mhara for use in processing at prices at which deep frozen fish and cold stored fish can be sold even without making a profit.
Would the Minister see that the three German trawlers are based there to show the fishermen how to get fish cheaply?
And at a loss.