§ 62. Mr. O'LEARYasked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether he is aware that the naval authorities have forbidden Con Sullivan and Michael Murphy, of Dee-shirt, and Joseph Moriarty, Castletown Bere, to carry on lobster fishing in Bere-haven; whether he is aware that these men have carried on their industry for a long number of years, and that it was their source of livelihood for themselves and their families; and whether, in view of the fact that they have been deprived of their living in direct consequence of naval operations, he will see that they get proper compensation?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe Fishery Regulations applying to the district in question were prepared only after the most careful consideration, and no infraction of them can be permitted. My hon. Friend will, of course, recognise that the fishermen in whom he is interested are only three amongst many affected by the Regulations. Claims for interference 1739 with trade or business are not dealt with by the Admiralty, but by the Defence of the Realm Losses Commission, and compensation can only be awarded when private property or private rights have been interfered with. It cannot be awarded for interference with a public right such as the right to fish at sea, which is apparently the basis of the claim in the present case.
§ Mr. FLAVINMay I ask if nothing can be done to protect the livelihood of these poor people?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI am very sorry that that should arise, but what has been done is an inevitable consequence.
§ Mr. FLAVINIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that this means a further shortening of the fish supply, which is the food of the people?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI am afraid that is the result.