asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries whether he is aware that a number of English steam trawlers have been poaching the fish and destroying the beds in Galway Bay and vicinity for a considerable time, notably during the three weeks ending 9th instant, and whether he will state what steps were taken, and when, by the Department either to prevent this constant poaching from being perpetuated or to bring the robbers to justice.

Complaints have been received from time to time, and during the period mentioned in the question, of fishing by steam trawlers in Galway Bay, where it is prohibited by by-law. The fishery cruiser has patrolled the West coast as often as weather and the other demands on her services have permitted and visited Galway Bay for several days in January and again last week.

Is the Minister aware that a telegram was sent to the Department on the 21st February and that the "Murchú" did not arrive in Galway Bay until the 13th March?

That is quite possible, if she were on duty elsewhere.

Does the Minister wish to make a statement to the effect that sufficient provision is made for policing the coast and preventing those poachers from taking away the fish?

Is the Minister aware that those poachers refuse to stop when any vessel hoists the Free State flag and that you have no power to board them unless you hoist the Union Jack?

As regards Deputy Powell's question, I do not think that the question as to whether or not there are sufficient vessels at my disposal arises out of the answer I gave. As to the question put by Deputy Corry, what he alleges is not true.

Does the Minister think that sufficient use is made of the means at his disposal for preventing the fish being taken away by those poachers?

I do.

asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries whether within the past twelve months any British fishing trawlers have been captured fishing within the forbidden limits, whether fines were imposed, and, if so, whether these fines have been paid.

During the period referred to in the question, one British steam trawler was captured fishing within forbidden limits, and her gear seized and sold. Two others were captured, but their gear was not seized. No fines were imposed.