Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 10 Apr 2001

Vol. 534 No. 3

Written Answers. - Fish Farms.

John McGuinness

Question:

90 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to concern regarding the use of a chemical Malachite Green and the insecticide Invermectin in fish farms; if he will have investigations made in this regard and in the general use of chemicals and additives in the industry to preserve public confidence in the safety of the product and to ensure that wild fish are not affected; and if he will consider introducing stringent quality standards to cut chemical use, impose quality and raise environmental standards if necessary. [10730/01]

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

In common with other food producing industries the fish farming sector makes use as necessary of veterinary medicinal products under EU Directives to combat and control disease and parasites. The total quantity of medicines used in aquaculture is relatively small and the ongoing priority for the industry remains the constant enhancement of fish husbandry strategies and farm management, notably fallowing, to prevent or minimise fish disease in the first place. These ongoing improvements combined with improved disease control regulations have seen a corresponding reduction in the use of treatments.

Sampling and monitoring programmes carried out by the Marine Institute under EU and national regulatory frameworks encompass fish health status, testing for compliance with residue levels and environmental impact. These pro grammes are kept under regular review in line with EU and national developments to ensure that the highest quality and food safety standards, and best environmental practice are complied with by the industry and to maintain the high reputation of Irish aquaculture products on export markets.