Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 April 2014
22. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his views on whether there are problems with providing adequate Sunday cover by the National Parks and Wildlife Service officers in view of the fact that abuse of wildlife is more prevalent on Sundays; and if he has any plans to improve the position. [17985/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraOfficials of the National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department monitor compliance with the Wildlife Acts across the country on an ongoing basis and carry out patrols and site visits to enforce the various provisions of these Acts, as required. This often requires working at night and at weekends. As with all services provided by my Department, they are delivered within the overall resources available.
I have no evidence to suggest that wildlife crime occurs more frequently on a Sunday than any other day.
Members of An Garda Síochána, who are also empowered under the Acts to investigate alleged offences and to prosecute if they see fit, regularly assist my Department's staff in carrying out their functions.
