Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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1118. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he is aware that there is an invasion of the Asian clam species in the Shannon river which has the potential to harm and eradicate the fish there; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37432/15]

Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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Since first reports of Asian Clam, Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) has acted proactively erecting public warning signs and installing essential bio-security stations, notwithstanding the fact that neither my Department nor IFI have a statutory remit in the area of invasive species. I am advised by IFI that its early intervention in this issue has primarily concentrated on its core statutory responsibilities as regards the protection conservation, development and promotion of the inland fisheries resource.

IFI, together with the ESB undertook work to reduce the threat of further spread from angling activity and equipment. This was completed promptly and, with appropriate bio-security measures in place for anglers, the fishery was re-opened. IFI also contributed to the organisation of an international angling competition at Lanesborough aimed at showcasing the reopened fishery. It is understood, however, that the main potential vectors as regards spread of the species are outside the remit of IFI.

IFI also engaged, as a groundwork measure, in a scientific survey in the Lanesborough area which sets out many of the physiognomies of the species.

It would appear that the statutory remit in this matter rests with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and it is clear that a multi-agency response to the substantive issue is required, with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), as the body with a statutory remit, in the lead. I have agreed with the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, who has responsibility for NPWS, to continue working collaboratively on this issue.

My officials have again formally contacted the officials in NPWS to support a collective multi-agency approach and officials will meet shortly to discuss. IFI has confirmed to me that it is ready and willing to participate in a multi-agency group and to contribute any expertise it has in this regard.

It is important to emphasise that scientific expertise clearly indicates that this species is particularly pervasive in the environment and that eradication does not appear to be a viable option but that ongoing management of the situation, on a multi-agency basis, may be required. Assessment, on a multi-agency basis led by NPWS, may have to be made on the potential risks in disturbing the existing population.