Michael Fitzmaurice (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

This is a problem on the River Shannon. My question is very straightforward and simple. Is Waterways Ireland or the National Parks and Wildlife Service responsible? My understanding is that, under articles 48 and 49 of the habitats directive, the National Parks and Wildlife Service is the main body responsible for invasive species. Can the Minister confirm that in Lanesborough, Carrick-on-Shannon, Shannonbridge and in the River Barrow, where we have a problem with the Asian clam, her Department is the main body responsible? I have mentioned fisheries bodies and Waterways Ireland. Can the Minister state clearly whether the National Parks and Wildlife Service is responsible in order that the people in the areas affected will know who to deal with? Could she respond with a simple "Yes" or "No"?

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