Animal Welfare

Tuesday, 24 February 2026

Ceisteanna (836)

Paul Lawless

Ceist:

836. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the measures being taken to prevent the importation of pests such as the Tropilaelaps mite (described by experts as potentially more destructive than Varroa) and other invasive species including the Small Hive Beetle and the Asian Hornet; if his Department will commit to mandatory physical inspection of all honey bee consignments entering the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15047/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine

The movement of bees within the European Union is governed by Regulation (EU) 2016/429 (the Animal Health Law) which is supplemented by Commission Implementing and Delegated Regulations (Regulation (EU) 2020/688 and 2021/403). These EU regulations contain specific provisions to safeguard the health of bees located in the territory of the Union including safeguarding against tropilaelaps mites and the Small Hive Beetle.

To date, Small Hive beetle and Tropilaelaps spp have not been reported in Ireland. Nevertheless, my Department is aware of the threat posed to the beekeeping sector by these pests. In light of this, my Department is assessing the additional risks posed to bees from these pests.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage leads on the prevention and management of the introduction and spread of invasive alien species such as the Asian Hornet.

Question No. 837 answered with Question No. 833.