Vol. 482 No. 2
10 Mr. U. Burke asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the recruitment proposals, if any, she has for wildlife rangers and park attendants in view of the areas currently designated as special areas of conservation and areas designated under the Wildlife Habitats Directive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17339/97]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 210 of 7 October 1997. I am particularly aware of the increased demands and obligations placed upon the National Parks and Wildlife Service staff of my Department by, inter alia, the transposition of the EU Habitats Directive through the European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations, 1997. My Department has submitted proposals to the Department of Finance regarding an increase in ranger staff.
