Noel Rock (Dublin North West, Fine Gael)
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124. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if she has been liaising with local authorities regarding the culling of seagulls in Dublin city; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42126/17]

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 and safety or to air safety.  In Ireland, Declarations in this regard are renewed annually.

The current 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 which may involve the removal of eggs and nests only. 

Finally, my Department does not have a role in undertaking the activities permitted under the Declaration.  I would point out that the culling of seagulls is not permitted and I have not been liaising with local authorities in this regard.