Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

In any event, it impacts on the currency which is of such vital importance to every member of the eurozone. It is important that we hear from the Minister in regard to the situation and that we hold a debate, as Senator Fitzgerald has called for.

We are all aware that our tourism industry is in a very fragile state and in need of every assistance and help it can get. I refer to the volcanic eruption and the floating plumes and we are aware of what they are doing. They are preventing so many people from visiting our shores. Sadly, one thing we had been doing in the south west, a very worthwhile project, has been set back. Protected birds of prey, the white-tailed eagles, are threatened now. We have had 55 in all, ten of which have been poisoned recently with the laying of illegal substances, including laced meat baits. This is most unfortunate. Our farming community is very supportive of this very worthwhile project but sadly some individuals have taken it upon themselves to try to wipe out these magnificent, majestic birds, which so many people have already come to see. Two of the birds recently poisoned have been here since 2007 and approaching breeding stage. This is most unfortunate for the future of the project. Norway has been very good to us, allowing us 20 fledglings per annum.