§ MR. O'CLERYasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland, Whether the Irish Fisheries Department has received any 1150 information with regard to the existence of large unworked oyster beds off the coasts of Wexford and Wicklow; and, whether the Inspectors have taken, or propose to take, any steps to ascertain if such oyster beds exist?
§ SIR MICHAEL HICKS-BEACHSir, some Arklow fishermen reported to the Inspectors of Fisheries over a year ago that they believed, owing to having taken up some oysters when engaged in fishing operations outside the Kish Bank, that an oyster bed existed there. The place the fishermen indicated is nearly 14 miles from the shore, and dredging operations can only be carried on during fine weather. The Inspectors of Fisheries contemplated making some investigations last year, to ascertain whether the supposition of their informants was correct, but other engagements prevented them until the season became too advanced. Before this summer is over they propose doing so, and intend forthwith applying for a Government vessel for the purpose, which will probably be granted. The place where the fishermen got the oysters lies off the Wicklow coast, more towards Dublin than Wexford.