Mattie McGrath
Question:67. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her response to issues associated with hen harrier conservation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43486/15]
View answerTuesday, 8 December 2015
Questions (67)
Written answers
An Inter-Departmental Steering Group was convened in July 2014 to assist in the development of a Hen Harrier Threat Response Plan. The Group is examining all of the issues at hand, including forestry and financial supports for farmers, with a view to determining the appropriate course of further action. A Consultative Committee with representatives from all the relevant sectors was also set up, including representatives of agriculture and forestry. This year my Department undertook a survey of Hen Harriers in Ireland. Such surveys are carried out every 5 years. It was agreed by all parties on the Consultative Committee that the results of the 2015 Hen Harrier survey should be incorporated into the Plan. The Steering Group and Consultative Committee met in the past month to consider the results of the 2015 Hen Harrier Survey and will meet again shortly to continue work towards the first draft of the Plan.