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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 17 May 1978

Vol. 306 No. 8

Ceisteanna—Questions . Oral Answers . - Foreign Boat Fishing .

37.

asked the Minister for Fisheries if, in view of persistent allegations by Irish fishermen that large quantities of herrings are being caught in prohibited areas by foreign trawlers, he will ensure that all foreign boats fishing within the 200-mile fishing zone must report their presence and location on arrival; and if he will ensure that on completion of their fishing operation they will have their catch checked at an Irish port.

: The reporting arrangements suggested by the Deputy are already in operation for Spanish vessels. I have sought, and will continue to press for a similar provision covering Community vessels to be included in any fishing plans that may be agreed.

A requirement that catches by foreign vessels in Irish waters be checked at Irish ports would be completely impracticable. As however, the Deputy is no doubt aware, such vessels may be inspected at sea and if there are grounds for suspecting that our fishery laws have been infringed they may be taken to port with a view to possible prosecution.

I have no real evidence that the allegations referred to by the Deputy are well founded.

: Irish fishermen will say that the term "impracticable" is totally incorrect in this context. The type of check referred to is absolutely necessary. Consequently, I would ask the Minister to ensure that it is carried out. It is well known that there is wholesale illegal fishing. Is the Minister aware that Dutch boats are fishing for herring on a huge scale in the Celtic Sea although that area is supposed to be closed for herring fishing? Is he aware also that Irish boats cannot fish there despite this situation of large quantities of herring being caught by other fishermen? It is important that this practice be brought to an end immediately.

: I am not in a position to accept what the Deputy is saying but I will have his remarks conveyed to the Minister for Fisheries.

: The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.

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