asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if his Department are monitoring the various species of endangered flora and fauna; if he will list these species and the measures being taken to protect them; and if he will consider enlisting the co-operation of the students in our schools in the crusade.
Written Answers. - Endangered Flora and Fauna.
428.
Cavan-Monaghan): No species of flora or fauna which occurs in Ireland could be said to be in danger of extinction. However, to ensure that native wildlife species would not become so endangered, the Wildlife Act, 1976, and various orders and regulations made under it have protected certain species against exploitation. Protected species include all wild birds, with the exception of 12 common pest species, 18 species of wild animals and 52 species of flora.
While there is no formal school involvement in the wildlife conservation programme, some university students from appropriate faculties are employed periodically in connection with the monitoring and other studies of wildlife carried out by my Department according as conservation requirements dictate.