MR. O'BRIENasked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Whether it is a fact that the Killavullen (county Cork) policemen, or any of them, have received anglers' salmon licences gratis from the Fishery Conservators or their inspector, on condition of prosecuting poor fishermen fishing for salmon without the written authority of the riparian proprietors; and, if so, whether such a practice is legal?
§ MR. CAMPBELL - BANNERMANIt is the fact that some sergeants and constables in the Lismore district have received free licences from the Fishery Conservators in consideration of their services in protecting salmon during the annual close season. No condition such as mentioned in the Question, nor any condition has been imposed, and the Constabulary do not, and could not, prosecute for fishery trespasses. I am advised that the licence may protect the person fishing, but that it is questionable whether the Conservators are not bound to charge themselves with the licence duty. That, however, is a matter between them and those interested in the funds derived from licences.