asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry when it is proposed to declare Lough Mask, County Mayo, as a bird sanctuary; the estimated number and species of wildlife living on the lake and in its vicinity; the programme for wildlife development in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Lough Mask (Mayo) Wildlife.
662.
I have accepted, in principle, the proposal for a wildfowl sanctuary on Lough Mask. Formal effect will be given to this decision in the next order amending the sanctuary list. It is not possible, at present, to indicate when the order will be made but in the meantime no shooting will be permitted on the lake.
No recent wildfowl counts have taken place on Lough Mask or in the immediate vicinity. Winter populations on the lake are estimated to be approximately 200 mallard, 150 teal, 120 wigeon, 150 tufted duck, 40 pochard and 30 goldeneye. There is no current wildlife development programme for the area.
Lough Mask is a State lake. A dispute which existed between local interests and tourist interests concerning shooting on the lake has recently been resolved. As no further shooting will be permitted, for practical purposes, the lake is already a sanctuary. Legal effect will be given to the sanctuary at the first available opportunity.