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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 27 Oct 1982

Vol. 338 No. 1

Written Answers. - Seal Culling Licences.

410.

asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry whether licences are being issued for the culling of seals; if licences have been issued, the number and under what conditions; and, in view of the fact that it was agreed that experts should urgently examine existing methods of seal slaughter as well as ways of ensuring the survival of the species, the action he has taken on the matter.

Culling, in the accepted sense of the term, involves the removal of a specified number of animals from a herd so that its population and future growth may be controlled. In that context no licences to cull seals have been granted. However, under section 42 of the Wildlife Act, 1976, it is open to fishermen to apply for permission to control seals which are causing damage to a fishery. This year to date 12 such permissions were issued including two for the protection of fish farms. The stipulated humane method of control was by rifle.

I am satisfied that the protection afforded to seals by the Wildlife Act will ensure the survival of the species in Irish waters.

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