asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware of the French fishing fleet's intrusion into Irish territorial waters for the purpose of fishing along the Waterford coastline during the week ended 5th March, 1972; if he will take steps to protect Irish waters to safeguard the future of Irish fishermen; and if he will also take steps to lodge a formal protest with the French Ambassador.

No reports were received of any intrusion into Irish territorial waters by a French fishing fleet during the week ended 5th March, 1972.

However, arising from a report received from the Garda Síochána on 8th March, 1972, that French vessels were illegally fishing in the Mine Head area one French fishing vessel was arrested on 9th March, 1972. Another such vessel was arrested on 10th March, 1972. It would not be appropriate to lodge a protest with the French Ambassador in the matter.

Is the Minister not aware that they freely fished within our territorial waters over that weekend and that none of the fishery protection vessels were near it? I am of the opinion that the fishery protection vessels are not interested in protecting the Waterford fisheries.

I am quite satisfied that the fishery protection service, within the limits of their resources, are doing whatever is possible to protect our fishing interests. The evidence we have would not substantiate what Deputy Collins has said. One French vessel was arrested on 9th March and another one on the 10th and there have been two convictions. I am quite satisfied that the fishery protection service are doing their best and doing an effective job.

Question No. 39.

Could the Minister tell us where they were last week?

That is a separate question.

They were on their job.

Like the Government. Sitting down on it.