asked the Minister for the Marine if he will give a report on the investigation undertaken by his Department on the reported fish kill of the deep sea species on the south west coast; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Fish Kill of Deep Sea Species.
25.
My Department's investigations into the recent fish kill at Bantry Bay are not yet complete. Early indications are that the kill occurred because of a lack of oxygen in the deeper waters of the bay brought about ultimately by weather conditions.
To date the investigations have involved laboratory examination of the dead specimens taken from the bay, water samples and dredge samples from various locations within it, and a diving study of the sea floor around Whiddy Island. These investigations have shown no evidence of pollution from any source including red tide. Officers of the Department are still in the area taking samples to determine the cause and the effects.