Vol. 509 No. 5
42 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the action, if any, he is taking to deal with the significant increase in the population of zebra mussel currently causing problems with fresh water intakes in the Shannon basin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19156/99]
The Marine Institute is, at my direction, carrying out extensive surveys of the distribution and impact of the species and a special study of its biology is expected to be completed by the end of this year.
In the meantime a precautionary approach is being adopted to control the spread of the species and two information leaflets, with my endorsement, have been circulated widely at a targeted readership, including boat owners and fishermen in particular with a view to informing them on measures they can adopt to reduce its spread.
The zebra mussel has been present in the UK and Europe for about 170 years, and I am advised that there are no records of damage in the UK or continental Europe caused by this species. No serious economic damage caused by the zebra mussel has been reported in this country nor has any ecological damage become apparent to date.
I would like to point out that the maintenance of fresh water intake pipes in the Shannon basin is primarily the responsibility of the relevant local authorities. I would be supportive of any proposals under consideration by the local authorities to control the problem provided they would not adversely effect fish stocks or the aquatic environment.
