Vol. 465 No. 2
92 Mr. Flanagan asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht the plans, if any, he has to deal with the difficulties posed by feral goats throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9362/96]
I am informed that technically speaking feral goats can be classed as wild animals.
The position regarding these wild animals is that they are not a protected species under the Wildlife Act, 1976, and may therefore be taken or killed. A licence is not required for such taking or killing. The Wildlife Act, 1976 (Approved Traps, Snares and Nets) Regulations, 1977 — S.I. No. 307 of 1977 — lays down the types of methods which must be used for trapping wild animals.
It is open to landowners or private individuals to take preventative steps, including killing if they so wish, where feral goats are creating a problem.
