I should like to ask the Minister if we can take the precedent of State purchase of this bed as an indication of future policy in other areas along the coast?

(Cavan-Monaghan): The joint programme lays out Government policy on the acquisition of fisheries. The intention would be to have a look at each fishery as it comes on the market and then it would be a matter for the central fisheries board.

Will the Minister also take into account and investigate certain areas along the coast which have special licences but which are not being operated? Will he do this with a view to the Government taking an interest in the matter? I agree with Deputy Higgins in this regard but there are a lot of licences not being operated and a lot more use could be made of them.

(Cavan-Monaghan): It is the policy of the Government to show an interest, at least, in all fisheries which become available or which are for sale. That will continue.

I am talking about the ones that are not for sale and are not being used. Is there any question of compulsory acquisition?

(Cavan-Monaghan): I do not think there are any proposals for compulsory acquisition.