asked the Minister for Health what action he is taking to examine the relationship between the deaths of seabirds on the east coast of Ireland and the use of insecticides and pesticides and their effect on humans; if the results of examinations of the birds will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Deaths of Seabirds.
9.
The question of the relationship between the deaths of seabirds on the east coast of Ireland and the use of insecticides and pesticides would not be a matter for my Department. I am informed, however, that no necessary relationship has yet been established between the deaths of the birds and the use of insecticides and pesticides.
My prime concern as Minister for Health in relation to the use of insecticides and pesticides relates to the possible effects of the residues of such substances in food for human consumption.
In this connection I would add that the question of pesticide and insecticide residue in food will be examined as a matter of priority by my Food Advisory Committee.