asked the Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestry if he will make a statement on the damage to fish life, wild birds, etc. from recent pollution on the River Tolka; and the action which will be taken in this matter.

Fish stocks in that part of the River Tolka affected by the recent pollution incident are low but the Eastern Regional Fisheries Board are investigating the matter to see if a prosecution is warranted.

In so far as the damage to wildbirds is concerned, I would like to acknowledge the swift and effective action which was taken by Dublin County Council, the Irish Wildbird Conservancy and the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Fifty-two mute swans were removed from the river, all covered in light fuel oil. Seven have since died, three were fit for release and the remainder are receiving treatment.