Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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Question 225: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the number of birds of prey, which have been destroyed in recent times; the way this impacts on the re-introduction programme; the evidence that exists to suggest that the birds have been targeted by members of the farming community; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19581/10]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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My Department has been working with the Golden Eagle Trust on the re-introduction of extinct birds of prey into Ireland, such as the Golden Eagle in Donegal, the White Tailed Eagle in Kerry and the Red Kite in Wicklow. I am aware that there have been recent incidents where some of these re-introduced birds have died as a result of eating poisoned meat-based bait. I am very concerned at these incidents as not only do they impact negatively on our commitment to maintain and enhance Ireland's native wildlife but they also harm our environmental and agricultural reputation at home and abroad.

My Department is addressing the regulatory position in relation to the use of poisoned meat-based bait, and it is my intention that new regulations will be made to help enhance protection of our wildlife while, at the same time, ensuring good farming practice. While I recognise that the great majority of landowners and farmers are supportive of the raptor re-introduction project, and against the use of poison, it is necessary to continue to work to stop the few people who are continuing to use poison in this manner.