asked the Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestry the precise number of fox pelts exported from the Republic for the 12 months ended 31 December 1985; if he considers that the time has arrived to protect this species; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Export of Fox Pelts.
26.
The export of fox pelts is prohibited save under licence granted by me in accordance with regulations made under the Wildlife Act, 1976. The total number of fox pelts exported in the 12 months ended 31 December 1985 was 51,600 of which 15,946 came from farm reared animals.
The scientific evidence available to me does not suggest that there is any threat to the wild fox population in this country and I am satisfied that there are no grounds at this stage for the adoption of protection measures for this species under the Wildlife Act, 1976.