Vol. 432 No. 5
51 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Finance if there has been any noticeable increase in the magpie population; if he will give details of the damage, harm or health hazard, if any, these birds may cause; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
While there is no systematic collection of data on the numbers of magpies in this country, I am advised that their numbers appear to be on the increase, especially in urban areas.
As predators/scavengers they may play a role in the spread of animal diseases. Under the EC Bird Directive (No. 79/409) all birds, including magpies, are protected species and where such birds are a cause of serious damage to other fauna and/or a vector in the spread of animal diseases they can be controlled under derogation from the Directive. The Directive was given effect in this country on 21 July 1986 by the European Communities (Wildlife Act, 1976) (Amendment) Regulations, 1986 — S.I. No. 254 of 1986. As recently as 3 June last I made a Declaration under the 1986 Regulations authorising control of magpies.
