§ 33. Mr. BOLANDasked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) whether, in view of the fact that since the departure of the "Helga" the trawlers have renewed illegal operations off the coast of Kerry, steps will be taken to commission the different steamers which ply between Sligo, Tralee, Limerick, and Cork to watch trawlers during their voyages and to report cages of illegal fishing operations; and whether, in view of the impossibility of small fishing boats putting to sea in rough weather from the Glen or Ballinskelligs, a similar commission will be given to the numerous motor boats now operating from different fishing centres on the West Coast, in order that the task allotted to one steamer of policing the entire West Coast of Ireland may be carried out by additional help?
§ Mr. T. W. RUSSELL (Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture, Ireland)The Department have considered the proposal made in the hon. Member's question, but they are of opinion that it would not be practicable to make arrangements of the kind suggested.
§ Mr. BOLANDWhat practical steps does the right hon. Gentleman propose to take in the absence of the "Helga"?
§ Mr. RUSSELLThe only means I have of policing the coast of Ireland is the cruiser "Helga," which is at the disposal of the Department.
§ Mr. FIELDWill the right hon. Gentleman make application for another cruiser, because, as he knows, one boat is no use?
§ Mr. RUSSELLI have done so more than once.