asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider the purchase of a helicopter for the purposes of surveying arterial drainage programmes and for the supervision and protection of wildlife against poachers in national parks.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Arterial Drainage Surveys.
24.
Mr. Kenny
The purchase of a helicopter to aid in the surveying of arterial drainage programmes is not considered necessary since existing arrangements with the Air Corps are adequate for such aerial photography as is required in this connection. As regards protection of wild life in our national parks, I am satisfied that the measures being employed at present in our parks are adequate and that the cost of purchasing and operating a helicopter for this service could not be justified.
Can the Parliamentary Secretary tell me if the poaching of deer, particularly in the Bourn Vincent Memorial Park, is at a minimum, or is it getting worse?
Mr. Kenny
It has been reduced since my predecessor left office. We have now provided the wardens with walkie-talkies——
A veritable Robin Hood.
Mr. Kenny
——and with binoculars through which they can see at night and two special vans which operate day and night. I do not think these were available in my predecessor's time.
We got it started.