Vol. 396 No. 9
82 Mr. Moynihan asked the Minister for the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the grave concern among Irish fishermen arising from the operation of Spanish fishing boats carrying 100 per cent Spanish crews in the traditional Irish fishing waters; and, if so, the action he proposes to take to protect the interest of Irish fishermen.
I am aware of the grave concern felt among Irish fishermen arising from fishing operations by Spanish vessels and "flagships" in Irish waters. I can assure the Deputy that both I and my Department will continue through administrative and legal actions to seek a resolution of the matter. Both the Naval Service and my Department's fisheries protection staff have intensified the monitoring of all vessels in Irish waters and take appropriate action in cases where infringements are detected. Currently a number of legal actions are being pursued through the Irish and European Courts on the issue of "flagships".
