asked the Minister for Lands whether in view of the fact that An Bord Iascaigh Mhara are unable to handle the fish catches at Dingle in the peak periods, and that the fishing fleet has more or less to lay up during this period, he will make arrangements for the establishment of a deep-freeze or some such plant to keep out the fishermen or, alternatively, set up a modern marketing service, as Bord Iascaigh Mhara are apparently not able to find the markets.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dingle Deep Freeze Plant : Marketing Service.
12.
I am informed that An Bord Iascaigh Mhara have in fact been dealing effectively with the fish catches at Dingle and that the volume of these landings would not justify the provision of a quick-freezing plant. I might also mention that fishermen at Dingle and elsewhere are free to dispose of their catches through fish auctioneers other than An Bord Iascaigh Mhara.
From reliable information I have received recently, when some heavy catches were landed about a fortnight ago at Dingle, fishermen received 8/- a box for a quantity of fish as against 12/6d. in Galway and 15/- at another port. The result was that they were informed that no fish would be taken from them on the second day. I understand those fishermen have very heavy charges to meet on their boats and I would ask the Minister to have the situation examined and try to get something done for them?
I will give that assurance.