Vol. 433 No. 5
95 Mr. E. Kenny asked the Minister for the Marine if he will give details of any scientific evidence that conclusively links infestations of sea lice to fish farming activities; the extent of the sea lice problem affecting white trout this year; the estimated strength of white trout stocks in 1993; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The advice available to me based on the conclusions of the broad range of scientists participating in the Sea Trout Working Group is that on the basis of scientific evidence to date it has not been possible to show a casual link between sea lice on farmed salmon and infestations on wild white trout. I have arranged to have a copy of the 1992 report of the Scientific Working Group forwarded to the Deputy.
Following my consideration of that report earlier this year, I put in place an expanded Research, Conservation and Management Programme to address the decline in white trout numbers. I have further augmented these efforts in recent weeks by establishing a task force with a mandate to secure the survival of the white trout. The task force, which is compact and representative of all relevant interests, has direct access to all monitoring and scientfic information emerging from the 1993 programme.
This information includes the sampling data emerging from ongoing surveys of rivers around the country in order to quantify the 1993 level of stocks and degree of lice infestations in white trout populations. I am advised that definitive conclusions in this regard will only be possible towards the end of the season for returning white trout.
I have made it clear that differing perceptions as to the cause of white trout declines must not stand in the way of concerted action to solve this complex problem. I am confident that the task force will deliver on its remit in a spirit of consensus and goodwill.
