Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I welcome the Minister to the House. This matter has caused some controversy locally because of the opposing points of views and I am anxious to hear the official line. An official complaint was made to the European Commission regarding the fencing project. I understand the need for fencing in order to provide for regeneration. However, the EU habitats directive and the UNESCO biosphere reserve designation must be considered. A study by Dr. Daniel Kelly of Trinity College Dublin shows that fencing off areas to all grazers could lead to an overall reduction in plant biodiversity. The native woodland scheme guidelines, which should improve plant biodiversity, must be examined. Would a limited amount of grazing not be beneficial to the woodland ecosystem? Some discussion took place behind closed doors but no agreement was reached. What are the views of the Minister on the two independent reports compiled by Mr. Bill Quirke, a professional ecologist? The Minister's assurance that there will be no damage or act of violence regarding this project is of vital importance. Is funding made available from Europe for the project?

The red deer are naturally woodland animals. Is the Minister satisfied that by excluding them from these woods he is not denying them important winter and calving refuge? Can he ensure the complete exclusion of trespassing sheep? It is not possible to fence the deer in or the sheep out. There is continual trespass and the area is treated as a commonage by a small number of people.

What is the official number of red deer in the Killarney National Park? A cull has been suggested if numbers are high but I would prefer if the sika deer were removed without disturbing red deer. Can the Minister assure the House that the mosses, ferns and lichens for which the woodland is internationally famous will not suffer a reduction because of the project?