Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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360. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if her attention has been drawn to the decline of fish on the Laune River and the need for a cull on seals (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5912/17]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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The Regional Management of my Department are aware of anecdotal reports in the decline of salmon stocks in the Laune river. While seals are protected under the EU Habitats Directive and the Wildlife Acts, permits may be obtained under section 42 of the Wildlife Acts to hunt seals where significant damage is being caused. This redress is available, for example, to individual fishermen to control damage to fisheries by seals at particular locations. Permits are issued in response to specific applications and each application is considered on its merits.