asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry the manner in which the numbers of each species of wildlife are being monitored in this country; in particular, if a census of rare, protected and endangered species has been taken; and, if so, if he will give details.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wildlife Monitoring.
12.
Having regard to the number and diversity of species of both wild fauna and wild flora in the country, it is neither feasible nor practical to monitor the numbers of all species. However, studies of wildlife species are undertaken as their conservation requirements dictate and as resources permit. A recent survey of grey seals along the north-west coast produced an estimated population of 1,200 to 1,600, a continuing census of the Greenland white-fronted goose on its wintering grounds at Wexford shows an average population of 5,300 and 52 rare flora species have been identified and protected by statutory order.
The Minister could not have been speaking with the Minister for Foreign Affairs who assured us here last week that a census had been taken of all protected and endangered species. Does the Minister intend to carry out such a census?
The question relates to the number of each species of wildlife and the Deputy can appreciate that it would be impossible to monitor——
I particularly referred to the question of rare, protected and endangered species.
This is ongoing. Monitoring on endangered species continues. For instance, there was a census of peregrine falcons and of foxes.
A final supplementary, please.
Will the Minister make available to the House the results of the various counts that have taken place other than those he mentioned today?
Yes. If the Deputy were specific in indicating the species he is interested in——
I refer to those mentioned in the appendix to the Wildlife Act of 1976 or 1977.
Question No. 13.
(Cavan-Monaghan): Will the Minister say whether the number of visiting white-fronted geese is going up or down?
The average count over the last ten years in the north and south slobs was 5,300 but we are worried about their natural habitats which have been diminished because of drainage in different areas.