Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 November 2018
310. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent to which the hare population has been reduced; the cause of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46407/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Irish hare Lepus timidus is considered to be widespread and numerous in Ireland. The national population is known to fluctuate between years depending on annual breeding success.
A national hare survey, funded by my Department, is underway across Ireland at present. The survey is using hundreds of cameras deployed across all habitat types and in every county of Ireland. Image analysis from this survey is ongoing. The results are due in mid-2019 and will provide a first national population assessment since 2007.
