asked the Minister for Lands if he regards existing legislation covering the preservation of red deer as adequate and whether, in view of the rapidly decreasing numbers, he will introduce such measures as are necessary to preserve the herds.
49.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Red Deer Preservation.
48.
asked the Minister for Lands if he is aware that the red deer species is almost extinct in Ireland because of the lack of effective protective legislation; and when the new Bill in relation to this matter will be introduced.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 48 and 49 together.
The information available to me suggests that the situation is not as critical as the questions imply. However, as already indicated to the House, I hope to introduce legislative proposals for the protection of wildlife, including red deer, before the end of the year.
Could I ask the Minister if he would expedite this legislation in relation to wild life? My recollection is that I received correspondence from the Department of Lands about three years ago promising us this Bill. Every session we are told it will come before the end of the year and meanwhile many wild species are being exterminated by gun-toting vandals particularly in the Greater Dublin area. I would urge the Minister to have this Bill published as a matter of urgency.
As I pointed out in the reply, it is hoped to have it ready before the end of the year.