HC Deb 04 June 1891 vol 353 cc1627-8
MR. NOLAN (Louth, N.)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that a notice dated 22nd January was issued from the Office of Irish Fisheries, saying that a meeting would be held in the Court House, Carlingford, on Thursday, 12th February, 1891, to consider an application To be permitted to dredge for, take, and have in possession foreign oysters during the close season for oysters in Carlingford Lough, and that said meeting was postponed without due notice given to persons interested; whether a silimar notice, dated 7th May, 1891, has been issued to say that a meeting will be held in the same place for a like purpose on the 9th instant; and, whether, if said meeting is to be postponed, due notice will be given to persons interested?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

The Inspectors of Irish Fisheries report that due intimation of the postponement was given by notices sent to the persons concerned and by publication in the Press.

DR. TANNER

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether any, and if so what, steps will be immediately taken to prevent the destruction of immature mackerel and hake on the southern and southwestern coast of Ireland by British fishing boats?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

The subject-matter of this question is at present engaging the attention of the Government.

DR. TANNER

Is it not a matter of urgency? Will not the Government, who are anxious to protect the Behring Straits fisheries, do something to protect the interests of the poor Irish fishermen?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I do not know whether legislation is possible in the case.

DR. TANNER

Has any attempt been made this Session to deal with the question?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

No, Sir.