Enda Kenny
Question:227 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the estimated seal population on the west coast; and her views on their increased numbers in the past decade. [17250/97]
Written Answers. - Seal Population.
There are no reliable estimates available for seal populations or movements in such populations on the west coast of Ireland. However, a three year study is at present under way on the distribution and migration patterns of seals in Irish waters. The study, which is jointly funded by my Department, the Department of Marine and Natural Resources and BIM, will provide data of seal populations. The study is due for completion in 1998 and the data will enable us to assess and quantify more accurately seal populations in Irish waters.