Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 7 Feb 1990

Vol. 395 No. 4

Written Answers. - Exploitation of Bird Species.

Theresa Ahearn

Ceist:

133 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he will give an assurance that, under the operational programme for tourism from 1989 to 1993, no assistance will be given to private sector tourist developers which involves the commercial exploitation of irreplaceable migratory species of birds.

Theresa Ahearn

Ceist:

134 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that in Bord Fáilte's development plan entitled Development for Growth the shooting of certain game bird species is placed on a priority list, despite the fact that grouse and snipe stocks cannot sustain commercial hunting; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Tourism and Transport (Mr. S. Brennan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 133 and 134 together.

I would refer the Deputy to my reply to Deputy MacGiolla on 1 February on the status of Bord Fáilte's development for growth document and the operational programme for tourism prepared under the National Development Plan 1989-1993.

Included in the tourism operational programme under a scheme for private sector tourism development is a provision for grant aiding the development of water, field and adventure sports specifically for tourists. The scheme is administered by Bord Fáilte and SFADCo in the mid-west. Details of eligibility, application procedures and moneys available are set out in the programme which has been lodged in the Dáil Library.

I would draw the Deputy's attention to the fact that one of the specific eligibility criteria for aid under the programme is that promoters must "demonstrate that the project is in harmony with the local environment." The development of water, field and adventure sports under the programme will be entirely consistent with a responsible approach to wildlife conservation.