asked the Minister for Lands whether bailiffs have been issued with revolvers as part of their equipment; and, if so, whether he has approved of such action.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Water Bailiffs' Equipment.
51.
I am aware that some boards of fishery conservators have issued revolvers to selected members of their protection staffs.
As to the second part of the question, the records of my Department do not disclose that such action was ever approved by the Minister having responsibility for inland fisheries.
The information before me is that the boards act independently in this matter.
I take it the Minister disapproves of boards of fishery conservators arming bailiffs with revolvers and issuing instructions to them in connection with the use of those revolvers in certain circumstances. In view of the fact that the Minister disapproves of this practice, will he convey his disapproval now to these boards?
I am aware that this practice did not grow up today or yesterday. I am also aware that on occasions the fishery inspectors were not the only people armed. As far as I am aware, this is a matter which is entirely one for the boards concerned, whose job it is to protect the fisheries.
And the Minister for Justice.
Could the Minister say, in the first instance, why these firearms are issued? Secondly, does the necessity for carrying them still exist?
I think that is a matter for the better judgment of the boards of conservators concerned. I am aware from personal experience over many years that selected officers of these boards are armed. I am also aware, as a result of experience, that guns are used by poachers as well as by bailiffs.
Would the Minister have any objection to giving us the names of the boards which employ armed bailiffs?
Offhand, I could not give the Deputy that information. It is a separate question. I am aware of boards in my own county in which this practice prevails, and has prevailed for as long as I can remember.
From what the Minister has said, does it follow that fishing is a dangerous game?
No, but the Deputy may take it that poaching is a dangerous game.
Since when?
It is nothing new for bailiffs to be armed.