Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 July 2019
3036. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her views on proposed EU legislation (details supplied); if she will enter into consultation on the proposals with farmer organisations and rural representative groups in view of the significant replacement costs that will be incurred to meet the new requirements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34261/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA) was developed under the UN Convention on Migratory Species. Ireland signed up to the Agreement in 2003. The agreement includes a commitment that “Parties shall endeavour to phase out the use of lead shot for hunting in wetlands as soon as possible in accordance with self-imposed and published timetables." My Department’s position is to support the AEWA commitment to phase out the use of lead shot over wetlands.
The European Commission have published an initial draft Regulation for consideration by Member States on the use of lead shot in wetlands following a report on the matter by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). It is my understanding that the proposal, should it ultimately progress into law, would make provision for a lead-in time to facilitate the making of arrangements to source alternatives to lead shot.
My Department has had discussions with hunting and farming bodies on this matter and contacts will continue as the situation evolves.
