Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party)
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Question 456: To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if it is the case that the Statutory Instrument number 477 of 2011 will affect those selling Koi fish and other fish from pet shops; if licences will be made available to those who wish to do so and the form such licenses will take. [19906/12]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
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The European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 include provisions to prevent the introduction or escape and spread of invasive alien species in Ireland. The introduction or escape of certain fish species into watercourses has the potential to cause serious ecological damage to those watercourses, and when alien species become established it is likely to be extremely costly or indeed impossible to eradicate them. This is why it is necessary to make such provisions in law.

The above Regulations allow for the granting of licences for sale of certain species. Given the diversity of circumstances that may arise, each application for a licence will need to be individually considered by my Department, taking account of the requirements of the Habitats Directive, in particular Article 22(b) of that Directive, and best scientific advice.

Regulation 50 of the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 is not yet in effect. Before this regulation is commenced, my Department will examine, with relevant experts, whether a significant threat is posed by Koi carp, as opposed to the common variety of carp.