HC Deb 04 November 1918 vol 110 c1796
74. Mr. FFRENCH

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he is aware of the destruction of salmon in Waterford Harbour by seals that appear to be on the increase, and the consequent injury to the fishermen of Ballyhack, Arthurstown, Duncannon, and Passage East; is he aware that one of the fishermen who previously carried a rifle in his boat for shooting seals will not now be allowed to do so, but is offered a shot gun instead; and, since he will not allow the police to shoot the seals from the shore, will the Irish Government or the Department of Agriculture devise some other means for the destruction of the seals?

Mr. SHORTT

I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to his question on the subject on 30th July last.

Mr. FFRENCH

What is the use of giving a shot gun to the fisherman to shoot seals when a shot gun is no use for that purpose? What objection is there to allowing the police to shoot seals from the shore?

Mr. SHORTT

I hardly think that is the business of the police.