Invasive Species Policy

Tuesday, 9 July 2024

Questions (413, 414)

Noel Grealish

Question:

413. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage he plans to add the non-native/invasive freshwater fish of pike (esox lucius) and perch (perca fluviatilis) to the invasive species list recorded under the third schedule, part 2 of the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 477 of 2011), considering their huge negative impact on lacustrine special areas of conservation in Connemara, County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29372/24]

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Noel Grealish

Question:

414. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he plans to add pink salmon (oncorhynchus gorbuscha) to the invasive species list recorded under the third schedule, part 2 of the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 477 of 2011), considering the statement on 25 June 2025 by the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, categorising pink salmon as an invasive alien species; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29373/24]

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Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage

I propose to take Questions Nos. 413 and 414 together.

While my Department's National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is responsible for legislation and policy around invasive alien species in Ireland, Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) has the statutory responsibility for the protection, development, and management of Ireland’s rivers and streams together with 128,000 lake hectares.

There are no plans at this time to add Pink Salmon, Pike or Perch to the national list of invasive alien species. Pike and Perch have been present in Ireland for hundreds of years and are considered to be naturalised species which are widespread across the country.

However, NPWS regularly liaises with IFI on matters relating to aquatic non-native species, including the Pacific Pink Salmon. While it is not a listed invasive alien species, NPWS will continue to monitor the situation and will be guided by expert advice provided by IFI.

Question No. 414 answered with Question No. 413.