Martin Ferris (Kerry North-West Limerick, Sinn Fein)

I thank the Minister of State for his response. One only has to look at the number of submissions, 85, to get an indication of how seriously people view the situation in the Dingle and west Kerry peninsula area and further afield. The point made by Deputy Healy-Rae about boats anchoring outside the harbour and the dangers that presents should not be ignored. Even people with yachts now find things more difficult, because everybody is hurting at this point. I am glad Department officials will meet the local community and fishermen. That is a positive move and I welcome it. There is a role for us as public representatives to ensure that comes about.

On a lighter note, some years ago on 1 April a report was broadcast on the news that Fungi had been shot by someone from Dublin. If these charges go ahead, the Minister will be held responsible for getting rid of Fungi.

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