asked the Minister for Lands if his attention has been drawn to reports that Greenland white-fronted geese are threatened with extinction mainly as a result of some drainage schemes; and if he will take steps to preserve this species.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wild Geese Population.
11.
I have seen a recently-published report on this matter.
While the population of Greenland white-fronted geese can be affected by many considerations—for example, destruction of habitat, human disturbance, and so on—the extent of breeding success in Greenland is the major factor in the population level.
The latest information available to me suggests that there is no question of this subspecies being threatened with extinction. Indeed I am glad to say that, in so far as this country is concerned, the number of these birds wintering here at present compares more than favourably with the numbers recorded for several years past.
However, in line with our international obligations arising from the fact that about half of the world's population of Greenland white-fronted geese winter in Ireland, the overall situation regarding these geese is kept under constant review.
Could the Minister indicate if there is any particular area in which these birds winter apart from the overall picture?
(Cavan): As the Deputy may know the vast bulk of them winter in Wexford and there is no evidence that they are declining. In fact the evidence is that the number this year will probably be well up to that of the peak period of 1968-69.
12.
asked the Minister for Lands if any progress has been made to increase the native stock of greylag geese within the country.
(Cavan): Experiments, involving a number of greylag geese specially imported for the purpose, are being carried out at the Wexford Wildfowl Reserve.
Is the Minister aware that while this is being done privately in the North Slob we should be officially making the South Slob a protected area?
(Cavan): I will have that looked into but I doubt whether it is necessary.