Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 27 Nov 1990

Vol. 403 No. 1

Written Answers. - Fisherman's Complaints.

Edward Nealon

Ceist:

112 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for the Marine the number of complaints received from Killala Bay and Sligo Bay fishermen in relation to the activities of Killybegs based tank boats fishing for pelagic fish inside the limits in these areas and contrary to the conditions of their licences; if he will outline the details of the investigations carried out into these complaints by his Department, especially into the loss of huge numbers of crab and lobster pots; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Wilson)

A number of complaints have been received by my Department from Killala and Sligo Bay fishermen alleging breaches of licensing conditions by the tank boats in question.

These reports are being actively investigated by my Department with a view to establishing the facts and formulating ways and means of resolving the problem. In this connection my Department recently met representatives of both sides in this dispute. Some progress was achieved and a further meeting is planned to take place shortly. In the meantime, the Naval Service have been requested to patrol the areas in question. In addition, consideration is being given to the maintenance of the Naval presence there in future over the August/October period to ensure strict observance of the law by all vessels.