§ MR. FLAVINI beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, whether his attention has been called to the destruction of the nets of mackerel fishing boats by steam trawlers off the western coast of county Kerry, especially in the Cahirciveen district and the Shannon's mouth; is he aware that the fishing boat "Botsy," from Cahirciveen, during one night last month lost nets worth £100; and will he say if steam trawlers are allowed to come within the three-mile limit, whether any complaints have been made to the Secretary of Irish Fisheries, and what steps have been taken for the better protection of the property of the fishermen engaged in the fishing industry on the coast of Kerry.
§ MR. PLUNKETTComplaints have been made of the nature mentioned in this question. With regard to the third paragraph, I can only repeat what has already been stated by me, that the question of the best means of enforcing the existing bye-laws prohibiting trawling, and of protecting the Irish fisheries from the depredations of trawlers, is at present engaging the most careful consideration of the Department.
§ MR. FLAVINIs there any bye-law in existence, either at Cahirciveen or the Shannon's mouth, to prevent steam trawlers coming within the three-mile limit? If not, will the right hon. Gentleman take steps with a view to getting one passed?
§ MR. PLUNKETTI must ask for notice of that question.