§ MR. SLOANI beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland, whether he is aware that the persons who, in company with three water bailiffs, were concerned in the illegal netting of Ballynahinch River on 6th June last, were not riparian owners, but members of the Belfast Anglers' Association; that the netting was across the river, with a drag net with mesh small enough to stop all but the smallest fry; and, if so whether, in view of the fact that this action was watched by the police, he will direct a prosecution.
§ MR. WYNDHAMThe Department understands that the Belfast Anglers' Association claim to have the right of netting in these waters. In view of the divergence of opinion in the matter, with respect to which the Department is advised that it is not competent to express an opinion, it is open to any person who feels aggrieved by the action of the Association to have recourse to a legal tribunal. The Department does not propose to institute proceedings.