Ciarán Cuffe (Dún Laoghaire, Green Party)
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Question 112: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the lands which have been acquired by the State for the Wicklow National Park within the past five years; the address, area, price paid and date acquired in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17622/06]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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In March 2006 648.3 hectares (1,602 acres) at Luggala were acquired for Wicklow Mountains National Park by my Department for €1.725m. This was the first acquisition for the Park during the past five years. Over the years, the Government has pursued a policy of increasing the number and size of our National Parks where possible. This has resulted in a growth in the number of National Parks from one (Killarney) in 1972, to six at the present time. I believe that we should continue to enlarge the area of these Parks and particularly through the acquisition of adjacent habitat-rich lands as they become available.

Ciarán Cuffe (Dún Laoghaire, Green Party)
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Question 113: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of people who are employed in connection with the Wicklow National Park; their respective roles and positions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17623/06]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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There are currently 24 staff employed in Wicklow National Park, including temporary and seasonal staff, as shown in the table. Two positions are currently vacant, Divisional Manager and Temporary Guide, and will be filled shortly. The positions of Divisional Manager, Regional Manager, District Conservation Officer, Head Conservation Ranger and General Operatives also carry responsibilities beyond the management of the Park.

Tony Gregory (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 114: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the National Parks and Wildlife Service has been given details by the Irish Council against Blood Sports of trading companies supplying and using glue traps; and the action taken in each case. [17624/06]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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My Department is actively pursuing measures against the unlawful sale and use of glue traps, including in some instances where details were provided by the Irish Council Against Blood Sports. Actions include inspections by National Parks and Wildlife staff of shops or other outlets which may be offering these traps for sale.