Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 October 2013
498. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the recent publication (details supplied) regarding salmonis infestations on migrating Atlantic salmon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42326/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland’s sea lice control protocols are operated by the Marine Institute and are strictly evidence-based. The protocols are considered to be more advanced than those operated in other jurisdictions for the following reasons:
- The inspection regime is totally independent of the industry.
- Data obtained as a result of inspections is published and made widely available.
- Treatment trigger levels are set at a low level.
In 2008, the State introduced a new Pest Management Strategy, supplementing the control regime already in place. This has resulted in a steady decline in average sea lice numbers on farmed salmon since its inception.
