Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 December 2017
309. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if a derogation from the EU birds directive will be granted to Fingal County Council to allow for the removal of nests and eggs of seagulls in the Howth area in view of the fact that the growing gull population has been causing considerable nuisance in the area in recent years during the breeding season. [52390/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe EU Birds Directive allows Member States to make derogations from its protective measures in respect of certain wild bird species in certain circumstances – for example, where they are causing damage to crops, livestock and fauna or represent a threat to public health or safety or to air safety. The Declarations to implement these derogations are renewed annually and an annual review of the Declarations is undertaken prior to their expiry. The review process includes consideration of the views of stakeholders, such as hunting and conservation bodies, and airport authorities on the operation of the declarations.
This year’s review took into account the issue of seagulls in the North Dublin area especially in Balbriggan which had been the subject of correspondence to my Department from some community groups and other residents which proposed the inclusion of seagull species in the Declaration.
Following consideration of the matter, the new Declaration, which is effective from 1 May 2017 to 30 April 2018, included methods to control seagull species in the Balbriggan area for public safety reasons. The control method can involve the removal of eggs and nests only; the culling of seagulls is not permitted.
These changes were introduced on a one year pilot basis and will be subject to review as part of a wider comprehensive review of the operation of the derogations next year. This comprehensive review will take account of all relevant factors, including perceived threats, distribution and population data available in respect of all the bird species in the declaration. My Department is currently examining tenders from contractors to undertake this review.
