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Inland Fisheries.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 June 2005

Tuesday, 21 June 2005

Ceisteanna (325)

John Perry

Ceist:

346 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will immediately cease all boat movement between Lough Swilly and Lough Foyle in order that bonamia disease will not spread into Lough Swilly and thus destroy a valuable natural resource in the Lough; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that if the disease enters Lough Swilly, it cannot be taken out again, thus eradicating the oyster industry in Lough Swilly for ever; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20612/05]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Marine Institute is investigating a potential case of bonamia ostrea in a wild oyster bed in Lough Foyle. The Marine Institute carried out tests for bonamia in Lough Foyle as part of its routine monitoring programme. Having identified a suspect positive result, the institute then sent further samples to the Community reference laboratory, CRL, in France for confirmatory testing, as required by EU fish health regulations. To date the CRL has confirmed the presence of a suspect organism. Final results from the CRL are expected in the week beginning 20 June.

In line with the requirements of EU regulations, under Irish legislation, measures are in place which provide for the control of movements of oysters, and other shellfish, from bays around the coast. As a precautionary measure, pending the results of the CRL tests, and as required by the EU regulations regarding disease control, it is on that basis that applications to move oysters and other shellfish originating in Lough Foyle for ongrowing in areas free of bonamia will not be approved by the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources at present.

Within the scope of those preventative measures, movements of boats in and out of Lough Foyle are continuing at present. I am receiving ongoing advice from the Marine Institute regarding the management of the situation.

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