Vol. 490 No. 6
6 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if her attention has been drawn to the decline in the numbers of native songbirds; and whether she has been in touch with relevant authorities in this matter. [10808/98]
As Minister with statutory responsibility for wildlife, including all wild birds, I am aware of some concerns regarding our native songbird population. Dúchas, the Heritage Service of my Department, is currently in discussion with Birdwatch Ireland in relation to the format of a countryside bird survey which will include our native songbirds. This survey will provide valuable data on population and trends in population of all our common songbirds. Until the results of this survey become available, I am not in a position to comment on whether there is a decline in the number of native songbirds.
I am glad to hear that Dúchas is in contact with the birdwatching fraternity on this matter. An accurate census of figures is available in England in relation to native songbirds. Does the Minister currently have any information on the population of kingfishers or skylarks and the decrease in numbers in the past 20 years? I remember the late Noel Lemass asking the late Henry Kelly the number of seagulls that flew over the Phoenix Park.
That was about voles.
I will not ask the Minister that question but she should be in contact with the local authorities in respect of hedge cutting, grass verge trimming, etc. This is an important issue which has been overlooked for a number of years. I ask the Minister to proceed with the survey as quickly as possible.
Deputy Deasy has a particular interest in this, and I am surprised he is not here to take part in this debate.
He is not well.
I am sorry to hear that and send him my best wishes for a speedy recovery.
With regard to the bird population to which the Deputy opposite referred, I do not have such information to hand. This question relates to our native songbirds with particular reference to the wren, sparrow, song thrush, blackbird, robin, finches, jackdaws and starlings. This is what the survey will cover. Until we see the results of the survey we cannot decide whether there is a problem and, if so, how best to deal with it.
We all recognise that there have been changes in agricultural practices which necessarily affect the habitats available to the birds, but some birds have benefited from this. I am told that grassland pasture provides rich food sources of beetle larvae, earthworms and many other invertebrates which are attractive food for rooks, starlings and jackdaws. The trends in such populations are a barometer where our environment is concerned. I share the concern of all the Deputies here. That is why Dúchas is taking a very active role with Birdwatch Ireland. I will be looking out for the results of that survey. Perhaps we will have an opportunity to discuss it at a later date.
Can the Minister contact the county councils in relation to the question of cutting hedges?
There was a false spring and the county councils cut everything indiscriminately.
Written Answers follow Adjournment Debate.
