§ 29. Mr. FFRENCHasked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) if he is aware that a list of fishing boats was made out by the secretary to the Fethard fishermen and the coxswain of the lifeboat and laid before the Development Commissioners, and if that list was discounted and contradicted without any evidence to the contrary; is he aware that the people of Fethard and the surrounding district are not only handicapped in the fishing industry, but, being so far from market, are also handicapped in getting in their supplies of coal, artificial manures, etc., and in the exportation of farm produce; and will the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) grant an inquiry into the necessity for improving Fethard Harbour and give the fishermen, traders, and farmers a chance to prove their case for a Grant from the Development Commissioners?
§ Mr. RUSSELLThe Department have no information regarding the list of fishing boats referred to, but are aware that better harbour accommodation at Fethard would prove of benefit to the district. The suggestion of the Department to the Development Commissioners that a sum of £6,000 should be granted for the improvement of Fethard Harbour, on condition that a local contribution of £1,000 was forthcoming, did not meet with the approval of the Commissioners. Under the circumstances it does not seem necessary to hold an inquiry for the purpose indicated in the question.