Michael Ferris
Ceist:62 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for the Marine if he will outline his programme of environmental protection in 1990.
Written Answers. - Environmental Protection.
Threats to the marine and freshwater environments may come from a large number of sources. An effective monitoring programme provides the necessary information for deciding on the most effective counter-measures. In 1990, the programme for Ireland's marine waters includes projects to determine levels of metals and nutrients around the Irish coast and water quality in areas involved in fish farming and shellfish production.
With regard to inland fisheries, while the local authorities have primary responsibility for maintaining water quality, the regional fisheries boards are involved daily in its protection and are doing so effectively. This activity includes monitoring, advising on potential problems, tracing sources of pollution and fish kills and bringing prosecutions against offenders.
For 1990 and subsequent years, special plans are in place under the Government action plan on the environment for speeding up the rehabilitation of Lough Sheelin. I consider these waters to be the flagship of our national programme for water quality improvement.