Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 5 Dec 2000

Vol. 527 No. 3

Written Answers. - Fisheries Protection.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

108 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the livelihoods of 70 mussel fishermen in Cromane, County Kerry are at risk due to the ban on harvesting and selling mussels in Dingle Bay, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28384/00]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Fahey)

Sampling and testing of shellfish is conducted in shellfish production areas around the coast, including Cromane, under the national biotoxin monitoring programme. Prohibitions on the harvesting of shellfish are put in place where test results establish that such a course of action is necessary for the protection of public health.

I am conscious of the difficulties faced by shellfish producers in consequence of the prolonged incidence of biotoxin contamination of shellfish this year. My Department is working closely with Bord Iascaigh Mhara, the Marine Institute and the Food Safety Authority, as well as the industry itself, on the necessary strategies to meet the difficulties being encountered.