asked the Minister for Energy if he has satisfied himself that considerable damage is not being done to wildlife because of the destruction of habitats, such as hedgerows and drainage of wetland areas, and through the use of pesticides; and the steps, if any, he is taking to safeguard wildlife in general.
Written Answers. - Safeguard of Wildlife.
41.
I am aware that the adoption of modern farming methods in land structure can entail loss of wildlife habitat but I accept that some loss is unavoidable in the national interest.
The Forest and Wildlife Service of my Department is concerned to try and ensure that habitat loss is kept to a minimum without interfering unduly with the desire of progressive landholders to improve their farms. Under the powers conferred by the Wildlife Act, 1976, and within the limits of the funds available to it the Forest and Wildlife Service is engaged in an active programme for the acquisition, protection and conservation of sites of major wildlife and scientific importance where possible.
Within the past year 11 nature reserves were established bringing the total of such reserves to 38. I hope to add significantly to that list in the coming months. The Deputy will appreciate, however, that there are obstacles in terms of financial restraint and interference with private property rights and the amount that can be achieved in this area is limited.