asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries whether he is satisfied that adequate steps are being taken by his Department to prevent foreign trawlers poaching within the three miles limit; and, if not, whether he will state when he proposes to implement the promises made by him in the Dáil on several occasions, to secure the services of an additional fishery protection vessel.

I have nothing to add to my statement on this subject made on the Vote for my Department a few weeks ago.

Is the Minister aware that on at least six occasions since 18th January, 1923, he made it quite clear that he considered that one patrol vessel was not enough in order to protect our sea fisheries? Is he also aware that he stated on a number of occasions that he approached the Department of Finance and hoped to bring in a Supplementary Estimate in order to provide additional protection vessels?

The Deputy, of course, was not here during my statement on the Estimates. I have nothing to add to what I then stated.

I read the Minister's statement on the Estimates, and no special reference was made to this particular situation.

Yes, there was.

Is the Minister prepared to implement the promise he made about additional vessels?

I have nothing to add to my statement on the Estimate.

Which means the Minister is not prepared to do anything.

The Deputy was too busy in Kildare.