Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 388: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the action he is taking to address the problems caused by the zebra mussel and potentially by the bloody red shrimp which have established themselves in the Shannon waterway network; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21135/09]

Conor Lenihan (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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Under the Fisheries Acts, primary responsibility for the management, conservation, protection and development of the inland fisheries resource is the responsibility of the Central and Regional Fisheries Boards. In addition, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, has responsibility for the enactment of legislation to control the ecological impact of invasive species on freshwater ecology and native species under the Wildlife Acts 1976–2000. I understand that the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, through the NPWS, is currently considering proposals for the enactment of legislation in this area.

As regards Zebra mussels, I have been advised that the Regional Fisheries Boards, including the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board, along with the relevant local authorities and other agencies, have sought to make water users aware of the spread of this species and how it can be prevented. This has been done through erecting signage at slipways, providing information brochures, and the publication of information on their respective websites.

In regard to Hemimysis anomala (bloody red shrimp), I understand that the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board has only recently become aware of its presence in Lough Ree and is working with the Central Fisheries Board to ascertain the extent of its spread within Lough Ree and also in Lough Derg. The Boards are also working together to develop a joint study to ascertain the impact of Hemimysis anomala on our native fish populations. This study will commence shortly. At this stage it not possible to state what effect this invasive species will have on our fisheries but early indications suggest that it could lead to a reduction in the coarse fish stocks.