§ 33. Mr. T. W. BROWNasked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that the herring fishery in Strangford Lough is being ruined by the number of seals that infest the lough; and whether steps will be taken to preserve this fishery?
§ Mr. SAMUELSThe herring fishing in Strangford Lough is subject to fluctuations like all such fishings, especially in narrow waters where the entry and movements of the herring are uncertain. The Department of Agriculture have no information which, would connect any existing condition of the herring fishing in the Lough specifically with the prevalence of seals, but on general principles the Department would regard sympathetically any local projects for the destruction of seals.
§ 34. Mr. BROWNasked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that the fishing industry at Kirkcubbin, county Down, is handicapped by the absence of steps or other suitable landing-place on the pier, and that there is the greatest difficulty in landing fish caught in this district; and if he will provide facilities for transferring the fish from the boats to the pier?
§ Mr. SAMUELSKirkcubbin Pier is private property, and expenditure upon it out of public funds is accordingly precluded.
§ Mr. BROWNWill the right hon. Gentleman take into consideration the 1118 acquisition of this pier by the Department in the interests of this important industry?