Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On the matter of prosecution, obviously these incidents are being pursued by the Garda but I am not aware of any prosecution for the incident referred to, which received widespread publicity. I am sure people were very much aware of the incident in that particular area, but as yet I am not aware of any prosecution. We have had discussions with the Garda on this matter and members of the force are carrying out extensive investigations and inquiries. Much depends, however, on the local community coming forward with information because it is impossible for the Garda to monitor everything that happens in rural areas. I hope, with co-operation from local gun clubs and the local population, these incidents will not happen in the future.

On the matter of the red deer, the red deer in Killarney are regularly counted and monitored. There are approximately 600 red deer in the national park. Recent deer census studies of Coillte properties in close proximity to the national park indicate that the population immediately adjacent to the park had declined due to shooting pressures pre-2012. This is one of the primary reasons red hinds have been removed from the open seasons order. Generally the view is that their present status within the park is satisfactory. On the question of further counting, that is an issue I will suggest to the National Parks and Wildlife Service. I think it would be a good idea.

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