asked the Minister for Defence if he will make a statement on the level of fisheries protection in force off the Waterford coast; and if he is satisfied that it is adequate to protect the interests and livelihood of fishermen in the south east.
Written Answers. - Fisheries Protection.
124.
The south east coast area is patrolled by the Naval Service as part of their fishery protection duties. A total of 39 patrols, including an intensive three week patrol during the month of October, of this area was carried out during 1986 to-date. In addition, the area has been patrolled during weekends since the Celtic Sea was re-opened to herring fishing at the end of November 1986.
The question of the adequacy of these measures to protect the interests and livelihood of fishermen is a matter for the Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestry.