Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I could speak forever but will not. I could list all of the species affected but will not do so. However, it is very important that the national pollinator plan be factored into the equation here. I know that the plan exists but we are in a crisis situation in terms of our pollinators. When we spoke about these issues three years ago, the beekeepers of Ireland sounded the alarm bells. We know now that we have the equivalent of foot and mouth disease in our bee population. I have been contacted by beekeepers who do really crucial work. They have told me that they are burning down hives in the midlands because a number of different factors are affecting the health of bees. These essential pollinators are having to travel greater distances because the range of plant life around them is diminishing. This is not just about the bees but about all of us, as we know. I once attempted to put the national pollinator plan on a statutory footing. I am not trying to do that with this Bill but bringing it in as a more formal consideration would be useful.

I will not press all of these amendments now in recognition of the fact that the Minister of State is engaging. However, I may need to press one relating to climate change and pollinator plans.