John Deasy
Question:366 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the measures he is taking to ensure that native trees are protected from imported diseases. [8188/03]
Written Answers - Protection of Native Trees.
The statutory authority for plant health is the Department of Agriculture and Food. The forest service of my Department is responsible for implementing the practical forestry aspects of plant health legislation.
Regulations are in place to prevent the importation into Ireland of pests or diseases of quarantine significance. The legislation covers the phytosanitary provisions relating to imports of plants and plant products of third country origin and also the provisions relating to trade between member states. With regard to third country imports, certain plants and plant products must fulfil special requirements and in some cases importation may be prohibited. In relation to trade between member states, Ireland has special protected zone status for specific pests and diseases and, where applicable, imported material must be accompanied by a plant passport indicating that the plants or plant products are free from the specified pests or diseases.