asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the action that is being taken to prevent roach entering high standard fishing areas.
10.
Ceisteanna——Questions. Oral Answers. - Control of Roach.
9.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will make a statement on reports to the effect that the Shannon is becoming infested by roach.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to answer Questions Nos. 9 and 10 together.
A bye-law which came into operation on the 1st of June, 1973, prohibits the transfer for any purpose whatsoever of live roach from any waters to any other waters.
Scientific officers of my Department, as well as officers of the Inland Fisheries Trust and the boards of conservators, in the course of their fisheries work are at all times watchful to ensure that so far as possible the terms of the bye-law are being complied with.
I am informed that there is evidence that roach have been introduced into the Shannon but the information available suggests that the influx is on a limited scale. All possible remedial measures are being taken in the matter.