I beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty if he can state the number and names of gunboats detailed for the protection of Irish fisheries, and how long ago they were detailed for this work.

The following gunboats are employed in the protection of Irish fisheries—namely, "Skipjack," "Argus," and "Amelia." The orders under which they are so employed were revised and issued in the year 1889; but gunboats have been employed in Ireland on fishery duty for many years prior to this.

What is the speed of these sailing cruisers?

The speed of the sailing cruisers varies with the strength and direction of the wind.

Will the right hon. Gentleman say where these vessels are stationed?

said he could not say. The duty was about the: coast.

May I ask whether these sailing ships are of the least value against steam trawlers?

That question does not arise. The only question on the Paper is with reference to the number and names of the vessels.

asked if the hon. Gentleman would cause an additional number of cruisers to be sent in view of the fact that three were entirely insufficient.

That is a question of opinion.