Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party)
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As part of the combined response to the discovery of oiled seabirds off the South-East coast in early May this year, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of my Department liaised with the coastguard and the relevant local authorities in relation to both the response to and investigation into this pollution event. The NPWS has also been in contact with non-governmental organisations such as Birdwatch Ireland and Kildare Wildlife Rescue who have played a vital and much appreciated role in dealing with the birds affected by this serious event.

In terms of on-the-ground response, the NPWS monitored the coastline and collected oiled birds, both dead and alive. The live oiled birds collected were sent to Kildare Wildlife Rescue for appropriate care. A large proportion of these birds have now been treated and released.

In light of the additional costs borne by the voluntary/third party bodies assisting in this emergency, I committed to making funding of €50,000 available via the NPWS to aid with the rescue and rehabilitation of oiled birds.