THE MARQUESS OF HAMILTONasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland, Whether it is the intention of the Government to bring in a Bill this Session with regard to the Irish Salmon Fisheries; and, if so, whether it is proposed to make any change in the Law relating to Fixed Nets?
§ SIR MICHAEL HICKS-BEACHSir, some suggestions having been made as to the amendment of the law relating to the Irish salmon fisheries, I referred them to the Inspectors of Fisheries for their report. That, however, cannot be made for some time, the Inspectors being occupied in other duties. When I do receive their Report I fear it will be too late to propose new legislation this Session, even should it be thought necessary. But considering the many abortive attempts to carry out alterations of the law upon this subject during recent years, I do not think it would be any disadvantage to the Irish salmon fisheries if they should for a certain time be left without any fresh legislation. I may, however, say that the Inspectors do not recommend that any change should be made in the matter referred to in the latter part of the Question.