asked the Minister for Lands whether, in view of the great number of salmon and trout which have died and are still dying in the River Suir and its tributaries and of the grave concern caused thereby to anglers and angling associations in the area, he will make available any information he has regarding the disease which has attacked these fish; and if he will state, in view of the fact that if the disease remains unchecked it will result in the complete destruction of all sporting fish life in these rivers, what steps his Department are taking to check the spread of this disease.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - River Suir Fish Disease.
11.
A disease, which has caused some mortality in salmon in a number of rivers, including the River Suir, has made its appearance in recent months. So far the causative organism has not been identified and there is no known method of controlling the disease in wild fish. I am satisfied, however, that the extent of the mortality is not excessive and it is believed that the proportion of fish affected is relatively small in most areas.
Is this the same disease as has manifested itself in Waterford?
As it has not been identified at either place, I think it is impossible to say but the likelihood is that it is.