A report published by my Department in 2009 estimated the population of wild mink in the State could reach a total of between 20,500 and 33,500 individuals, and identified ground-nesting birds as the species most vulnerable to mink predation. Accordingly, my Department is concentrating its resources on protecting the nesting sites of rare and threatened bird species, including red-throated diver, corncrake, grey partridge, waders and terns, from a range of predators, including mink. Experience has shown that targeted control of predators at specific times can have a significant benefit to the breeding success of these bird species.
With regard to the particular funding referred to by the Deputy, I requested, in granting the funding in question to the National Association of Regional Game Councils (NARGC), that, as far as it is possible, special attention should be given to the counties of Donegal, Galway, Mayo and Kerry to enhance work in those areas where my Department has been concentrating its own efforts. My Department is particularly aware of the potential impacts of mink control on non-target species, especially otter, pine marten and stoat. The funding, therefore, is being provided to the NARGC with a strong reminder that these other species are protected. Accordingly, even accidental capture of such species while targeting mink would be an offence and only acceptable legal forms of live traps can be used, with snares and fentraps expressly forbidden.
