asked the Minister for the Marine if he issued an instruction to BIM or if his approval was requested for the write-off of substantial moneys due to the State by a company (details supplied) in County Kerry; if he will make a statement on the matter to ease the grave public concern on the preferential treatment given to the boatyard owner in comparison to fishermen who had their boats repossessed when they could not meet their payments; and if he will ask the Comptroller and Auditor General to examine same.

I have issued no instruction to BIM in relation to this matter nor has any approval been given for the write off of moneys due to the State.