asked the Minister for External Affairs whether in view of the successful outcome of Iceland's claim for the extension of fishery rights, he will make a similar demand for this country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Extension of Fishery Rights.
15.
As the House has been informed on more than one occasion, the Government have the question of extended fishing limits under constant review. We have pressed, and we will continue to press, for the acceptance by international agreement of a régime on the lines of the Canadian-United States proposal at the Geneva Conference last Spring, which failed by only one vote to obtain the necessary two-thirds majority. That proposal envisages a 12 mile exclusive fishing area, subject to the right of those states which have customarily fished in the waters concerned to continue to fish for a period of ten years in the outer six miles of the 12 mile area.
At the same time I should point out that at the earlier Conference in 1958 there was recognition of the special position in relation to fishing and conservation of countries whose peoples are "overwhelmingly dependent on coastal fisheries for their livelihood or economic development." Iceland is of course in that category as she depends on fish and fish products for over 90 per cent. of her total exports.
We are still hopeful that the Canadian-United States proposal may yet be accepted. Should this not prove to be the case, we would then consider what other steps we should take.
Sir, it was impossible to hear the Taoiseach's reply to that question and I would ask that he repeat it.
No one heard anything.
I have no intention of reading it again. If Deputies cannot keep quite that is not my fault.
Do I understand that the Taoiseach is sore at having to do the business of the Minister for External Affairs while he is tripping around the world?
I asked a question and I could not hear the Taoiseach's reply. I have asked him to read it again, Sir.
I heard nothing either and I had my ears cocked.
None of us heard it.
The Taoiseach is obliged to answer a question so that all Deputies can hear what he is saying.
No. 16, the Minister for Agriculture.
On what grounds, Sir, are you refusing my request to ask the Taoiseach to answer the question?
I have not refused.
Nobody at this side of the House heard a word he said.
I am continually asking to have amplifiers put in here and that request has not been granted either.
I protest strongly against your ruling, Sir.
I have made no ruling whatever. I am calling No. 16.
I believe the Taoiseach is obliged to speak clearly and distinctly so that all Deputies will be able to hear him. You are again engaged in sheltering the Taoiseach from any adverse criticism.
That statement is entirely incorrect and should not have been made.
What can a Deputy do when he cannot hear the reply to a question? Would the Chair ask the Taoiseach to read the reply again?
Question No. 16.
I believe there is an obligation on any Ceann Comhairle to accept a request when it is made to him by a number of Deputies of this House.
The Chair is carrying out its duty. The Deputy will resume his seat.
With your permission, Sir, I propose to raise this matter on the adjournment.
I shall communicate with the Deputy.