I propose to take Questions Nos. 199 and 200 together. I refer the Deputy to my answer to a similar question to the House on 10 December 1997 and wish to advise on the updated position. The Marine Institute's fisheries research centre is already engaged in a study of the zebra mussel. Research work is also in progress in University College Galway. The Marine Institute has, at my direction, carried out extensive surveys of the distribution of the species and will continue these studies in 1998. The zebra mussel steering group established by the Marine Institute, to which I referred in my reply on 10 December 1997, has met on a number of occasions and is at present examining the reports on the spread and impact of the species. A precautionary approach is being adopted and every effort is being made to supply all parties involved with relevant information. Two information leaflets, with my endorsement, have been revised and reprinted and widely circulated to a targeted readership, including boat owners and fishermen in particular. Furthermore, an international conference of experts will take place in Galway next month organised by University College Galway with support from the Marine Institute. Following this conference the Marine Institute will compile and publish a further leaflet giving the most up-to-date information on the impact of the species and any appropriate remedial measures. Another international meeting on the subject will take place in Dublin at the Congress of the International Limnological Association in August.
