Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputies Carthy and Clarke for raising this issue. I accept the points they have raised. As I have already stated in my response, my Department is fully aware of the difficulties hunters and landowners may encounter in sourcing alternative ammunition or guns should the Commission regulation come into force. We are fully supportive of the ban on the use of lead shot in and around wetlands given the environmental threats posed by lead in the environment. At the same time, my Department has liaised directly with farming and hunting stakeholders and is acutely aware of the challenges involved. In addition to the challenges I have already outlined, the Commission's proposals for buffer zones of 100 m around wetlands add difficulty in trying to resolve these issues and enforce new restrictions.

We believe that the transition period of two years proposed by the Commission before the regulation comes into force in member states is too short, given that we are one of four members states that do not currently have any restrictions. Given the difficulties in terms of implementation, Ireland has argued that the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals, REACH, committee could push for a longer transition period. I cannot specify how long that period would be but we will continue to seek a longer transition period to incorporate the regulation. I will certainly take up Deputy Clarke's offer. I am more than happy to meet with the lobby on this issue.

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