asked the Minister for the Marine the steps which have been taken to establish the reasons for the outbreak of bonamia disease in Galway Bay oysters; if he will give the latest information on the extent of the outbreak; the steps he is taking to prevent the spread of the disease; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Bonamia (Oyster) Disease.
30.
On 8 September last, Bonamia disease was diagnosed in native oyster samples submitted to the Fisheries Research Centre of my Department three days earlier by a Galway Bay shellfish farmer. Local growers, the Western Regional Fisheries Board, BIM and local fishery officers were notified later that day. All movements of native oysters in and out of Galway Bay, except for direct human consumption, were immediately suspended by my Department.
The Fish Pathologist visited the area two days after his diagnosis and initiated a comprehensive oyster sampling survey in the Galway Bay area. I am pleased to tell the Deputy that the results of this survey indicate that the outbreak is confined to one holding site in the St. George Oyster Bed. In accordance with my instructions, this site is being closed down and destocked of infected oysters. I will not be allowing the restocking of this area.
While this outbreak has fortunately been contained, I would urge all those engaged in the oyster-growing industry to comply with my Department's regulations governing the movement of shellfish, in order to minimise the possibility of a repetition of this potentially catastrophic incidence of Bonamia. Bonamia can, and has in other countries, actually devastated oyster fishery beds.