Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

While I agree with some of the comments made by the Minister of State, I strongly urge that the cull be confined to sika deer. This is a question of husbandry.If there are too many red deer on the lowlands, they could be moved.

I accept the Minister of State's remarks on a census. While it might not be possible, I would rely on the rangers. Their approximations would be good enough for us. I do not accept that the red deer population in Muckross and Knockreer should be culled in the first instance. The fencing that I am calling for would affect only red deer and stretch 100 yd, 200 yd or, at most, 300 yd from the end of the wall of the Castlerosse car park on the western side. This would address the coroner's concerns by reducing the number of accidents on that busy stretch of road. There is no question of fencing on the Kenmare Road. As the Minister of State suggested, though, perhaps there could be improved signage to warn of the presence of deer.