A troubling state of affairs in the administration of Irish fisheries has come to light, as reported by The Irish Times on January 2. The monthly meeting of the Limerick Fishery Conservators presided over by Lord Maw, revealed a disconcerting situation in the protection of water bailiffs, prompting concerns about lawlessness in Ireland’s vital fishing industry.
During the meeting, a letter from the Department of Irish Fisheries was read, conveying the Inspector-General of the Royal Irish Constabulary’s reluctance to bolster the existing police force at Kileommon for the safeguarding of water bailiffs in the region. This decision raised eyebrows among the conservators, with Lord Antony Mackey expressing dismay at the lack of support for a critical industry.
Lord Mackey remarked that it was extraordinary for the Inspector-General not to provide assistance in protecting a significant sector of the economy. He questioned the priorities, emphasizing that police resources were readily available for various duties across the country, except for the crucial task of safeguarding fisheries.
Mr F. Fitt, a solicitor, voiced concerns about the police’s preoccupation with cattle driving, leaving little time for overseeing fisheries. The inspector, Mr F. Hall, added another layer to the complex situation, stating that the expiration of the Peace Preservation Act had left the entire country armed. This, in turn, heightened the apprehension of water bailiffs, making them reluctant to carry out their duties.
In response to the mounting challenges, Lord Mackey proposed a pragmatic solution – arming the bailiffs. He argued that, given the current landscape where firearms were accessible to the general public, there was no reason why water bailiffs should be deprived of such protection.
Mr Fitt suggested a more formal approach, proposing that bailiffs make a declaration stating that they are in danger of their lives while discharging their duties. This declaration would then be submitted to the police, mandating them to provide the necessary protection. The proposal received unanimous approval from the board as a resolution.
Lord Massy commended the suggestion, deeming it admirable in addressing the security concerns surrounding the water bailiffs. Mr Fitt expanded on the underlying issue, asserting that the police, seemingly fearful of repercussions, were hesitant to take decisive action under the current government.
The adoption of Mr Fitt’s proposal marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle to secure Ireland’s fisheries against lawlessness. The resolution reflects a collective acknowledgment of the challenges faced by water bailiffs and a commitment to ensuring their safety as they carry out their critical duties.
As the fisheries conservators grapple with the implications of this decision, the broader conversation now turns towards addressing the root causes of lawlessness and the need for a collabourative effort to secure the future of Ireland’s vital fishing industry. The resolution stands as a call to action, urging authorities to prioritize the protection of those responsible for safeguarding the economic backbone of the region.
Field – Saturday 11 January 1908
