Is the Minister satisfied that bonamia is confined to Cork harbour? Has he been able to identify the source of the disease or, if not, when does he expect to have some information as to how it occurred?

We are satisfied that the disease is confined to Cork harbour but, regrettably, we have not yet established the source. I cannot tell the House when we will have this information but we are working on it and we will try to have some details as quickly as possible.

Is the laboratory technician who was involved in research in the area still working in the Abbotstown laboratory or has he been transferred? Is there a problem in regard to the research into this disease and is this why its exact cause and source has not been established?

I presume that the Deputy is referring to the fish pathologist?

Yes.

The fish pathologist is still in Abbotstown and is fully responsible for all tests carried out there.

The time for ordinary Questions has expired and I must now deal with Questions nominated for priority.