asked the Minister for Lands if he will make a statement on reports (details supplied) regarding the shooting of native swans.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shooting of Swans.
21.
I have seen the press reports referred to and am having them investigated as a matter of urgency.
This is supposed to have happened some time ago and the report should be available, particularly since the matter is being investigated as a matter of urgency.
There is some evidence that the suggestion that there was large-scale shooting of swans is not correct. It is possible there was shooting of swans for meat during the Emergency, but the authorities at Bridgend do not suggest that this is so. According to a letter in today's Irish Independent from the chairman and secretary of the County Donegal Game and Wildlife Council, their investigation does not confirm that this wholesale slaughter is taking place. As the Donegal gun clubs and game preservation societies have investigated this allegation and can find no evidence to substantiate it, my investigation will continue, but I could assuage some of the Deputy's fears by saying that it seems to be a red herring.
Would the Minister accept that while the customs officer at Bridgend might be the appropriate authority, he might not be the best man to ask? If there are incursions from the Six Counties, and I understand there are, and the swans are being killed for the purpose of providing dog meat, that does not have to manifest itself at the Bridgend post.
Our investigations will include Bridgend post and any other place that seems suitable to us. First indications are that it is a storm in a tea cup. I would be very critical of anybody who would shoot a swan.
Will the Minister advise me when he gets the report?
Certainly.