485. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine considering the importance of protecting the native Irish honeybee (Apis mellifera mellifera), when his Department will make public the research commissioned in 2023 to University of Galway which concluded in 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11308/26]

I am very supportive of the important work beekeepers and all the beekeeping associations in Ireland do regarding the promotion and protection of Apis mellifera mellifera.

The Protection of the Native Irish Honey Bee Bill 2021 which is a Private Members Bill is currently before Dáil Éireann, Second Stage. Progression of the Bill through Dáil Éireann is subject to the procedures of the Oireachtas at which stage consideration will be given to the publication of the research carried out by University of Galway (NUIG).