Robert Molloy
Question:44 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for the Marine if regular quality testing is carried out on fish taken from the Irish Sea; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3651/97]
Written Answers. - Fish Testing.
A wide range of regular tests are carried out on fish and fish products from all sources, including the Irish Sea, by, or on behalf of, the Department. These include physical freshness checks for compliance with quality and hygiene standards and microbiological and viral tests to check for bacterial or viral contamination. Monthly samples are referred by the Department to the Radiological Protection Institute for radionuclide testing which checks on radioactivity levels. Regular sampling and testing for chemicals and heavy metal residues is carried out by the marine institute and by a number of analytical laboratories around the country.
The results of ongoing testing of fish from the Irish Sea have not, to date, given rise to any significant public health concerns. That said, there is no room for complacency in marine environment and public health matters and I assure the Deputy that all results will continue to be closely monitored. In addition the frequency, methodologies and procedures of all tests carried out on fish and fish products will be kept under close review.