David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State for his reply. One of the possible causes of colony collapse disorder is the varroa mite which is resistant to Bayvarol. Is it true this medicine has been found not to be effective? Why has there been a delay in promoting or licensing oxalic acid which beekeepers tell me is an alternative which works? Given that we imported €6 million worth of honey to Ireland last year what has been done to train beekeepers to support the industry and expand it? There is huge potential in this industry and part of this involves training beekeepers to ensure colony collapse disorder does not spread to Ireland.

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