Vol. 537 No. 1
72 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the levels of organochlorine pesticides, residues and heavy metal residues found in wild and farmed fish in recent sampling by the Marine Institute; the way in which these levels compare with international standards; the frequency, methodology and intensity of the sampling; the health risks of these residues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15479/01]
Sampling and monitoring programmes encompassing testing of farmed fish for veterinary residues and environmental contaminants are carried out by the Marine Institute under EU Directive 96/23/EC. The frequency, methodology and intensity of sampling is carried out in accordance with this directive and with Commission Decision 98/179/EC which lays down detailed rules on monitoring. Most recent sampling results forwarded to the EU Commission showed that residues of Ivermectin, a sea lice treatment prescribed under veterinary prescription, were detected in farmed salmon samples taken from one farm on one occasion during 1999.
73 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if sampling and monitoring of fish farms is carried out by the Marine Institute without notice in all cases; and if not, the reason therefor. [15485/01]
The administration of animal remedies in Ireland is governed by the Animal Remedies Regulations, 1996, which transposes into Irish law EU legislation regarding the supply and use of veterinary medicines in the EU. Sampling and monitoring programmes for a wide range of residues in farmed fish are carried out by the Marine Institute under EU Directive 96/23. Annex III to the directive provides that wherever official samples are taken, sampling must be unforeseen and unexpected. All practical efforts are made to ensure that the element of surprise in the checks is constantly maintained.
Monitoring of sea lice levels at marine salmonid farms is carried out by the Marine Institute on behalf of my Department under the national sea lice monitoring programme. The monitoring programme involves the inspection and sampling of each year class of fish at all marine finfish sites 14 times per annum. Under this programme advance notice of inspections is given to the farms who have responsibility for the transportation of inspection personnel to the sites, and is also provided to the relevant regional fisheries board in accordance with agreed protocols. In addition, there are a number of farms where on foot of a High Court order, 72 hours advance notice of inspections must also be provided by the institute to the legal representatives of a fishery owner. Current stringent management practices and controls governing the operation of fish farms are kept under continuous review in line with Government's policy objective for the sustainable development of aquaculture.
