andMr. Kavanagh asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he is aware that chemicals known to be toxic are dumped in a number of places in the Irish Sea; and of the concern regarding the death of seals, fish and birds, which may be caused by this type of pollution; and if he proposes to co-operate with the British Government in carrying out an investigation into this pollution and in any attempt to control such dumping.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Irish Sea Pollution.
36.
I have seen some recent press reports about the death of seals and seabirds but no mention was made of any reported damage to fish stocks in the Irish Sea nor am I aware of any such damage. The problem of pollution of the sea would come within my province only if it is likely to have a harmful effect on our sea fisheries. I should like to add however that I share the general concern about pollution and would be happy to co-operate in any effective efforts to minimise it.
Is the Minister aware that certain toxic matter is being dumped in the Irish Sea by some British interests?
I am aware only by reading reports, not all of which I absorb or believe in the context in which they are published.
Did I understand the Minister to say that even if these toxic matters affect seals they do not come under the Minister's jurisdiction? If other denizens of the deep were affected by toxic substances, should the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries not investigate to see if the same substances would affect the fish under his care? It is not enough for the Minister to say that he has read certain reports; the Minister should consider an expedition.
What I have said is that we do get people naturally interested in matters such as this who, through their enthusiasm, purport to represent views which are very often highly exaggerated.
I understand. We must always beware of enthusiasm.
The Deputy has his own body over there with toxic materials of many kinds. Be careful of it. In so far as my jurisdiction is concerned, I would be very interested in participating in any effort to cut out or minimise the dangers of dumping materials which might have adverse effects on fish and fishing.
Does the Minister propose sending an inspector down there?
If I have evidence that there is such dumping taking place as to constitute a danger to the fish around our shores.
A few dead fish.
A few swallows do not make a summer.