asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the regulations, if any, banning imports of baleen whale products; and, if there are none, if he will consider the introduction of legislation to ban such imports.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Baleen Whale Products.
37.
There is no ban on imports of baleen whale products into this country and I have no proposals before me for the imposition of such a ban.
Is the Minister aware that several countries concerned with the conservation of species that may become extinct are taking steps to prevent this by banning the importation of baleen whale products? Would the Minister consider following the example of such countries in this regard?
Yes. I know what the Deputy means and I appreciate the point he is making, but I understand that there is no importation of these products into this country.
That may be so. However, there is a principle involved and that is that we should join with those other countries so as to demonstrate to the world our concern in regard to conservation.
I will bring the matter to the attention of the Minister.
The Chair would be grateful if Deputies would ask questions rather than make statements.