asked the Minister for Defence the number of arrests made by the Irish Naval Service during the past year; the details of those encountered; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Naval Service Arrests.
7.
Mr. Coughlan
In the period from 1 January to 7 November 1985, the Naval Service detained a total of 59 fishing vessels for breaches of the fishery regulations. Fifty six were Spanish of which six were registered in the United Kingdom and three were registered in Ireland. Of the remainder, two were Irish vessels and one was French. The total number of vessels boarded in the same period was 361.
Will the Minister tell us if any further action is taken against the many Spanish vessels involved in encounters with our Naval Service? In view of the accession of Spain and Portugal to the EC, will he tell us what proposals there are to control this desperate situation?
Normal court proceedings ensued in a number of cases and they have been dealt with in court. Some 27 have been dealt with in court resulting in fines and forfeitures amounting to almost £1 million. Sixteen cases are awaiting trial and the others have been released. I am satisfied that the capacity of the Naval Service to deal with the advent of Spain and Portugal to the Common Market is appropriate.