Seán Haughey (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail)
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400. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the details of the measures introduced in Balbriggan, County Dublin to curtail the seagull population; the reason these measures were introduced; if similar measures can be considered for other areas such as Howth which is experiencing a similar problem; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24183/17]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The EU Birds Directive allows Member States to make derogations from its protective measures in respect of certain wild bird species in certain circumstances – for example, where they are causing damage to crops, livestock and fauna or represent a threat to public health or safety or to air safety.  The Declarations to implement these derogations are renewed annually and an annual review of the Declarations is undertaken prior to their expiry.  The review process includes consideration of the views of stakeholders, such as hunting and conservation bodies, and airport authorities on the operation of the declarations.

This year’s review took into account the issue of seagulls in the North Dublin area especially in Balbriggan which has been the subject of correspondence to my Department from some community groups and other residents which proposed the inclusion of seagull species in the Declaration.

Following consideration of the matter, the new Declaration, which is effective from 1 May 2017 to 30 April 2018, includes methods to control seagull species in the Balbriggan area for public safety reasons. The control method can involve the removal of eggs and nests only; the culling of seagulls is not permitted.

These changes are being introduced on a one year pilot basis and will be subject to review as part of a wider comprehensive review of the operation of the derogations next year.  This comprehensive review will take account of all relevant factors, including perceived threats, distribution and population data available in respect of all the bird species in the declaration.

Finally, my Department does not have a role in undertaking the activities permitting under the Declaration.