Biodiversity

To Whom it May Concern,

The Native Irish Honey Bee Society supports the conservation of the  native Irish honey bee, Apis mellifera mellifera in Waterford City and County which has always been and continues to be a stronghold for the Co. Waterford Beekeepers Association (WBKA). Since its inception in the 1950s the association has advocated and promoted this honey bee, with its membership confirming continued support in the Consitiution of the Co. WBKA. Also the majority of members in East Waterford Beekeepers’ Association (EWBKA) have a strong following for the conservation of the Native Irish Honey Bee.

In Northern Europe, the original home of Apis m. mellifera, this honey bee has become severely hybridized and it’s genetic purity, permanently lost to future generations.  In keeping with current research which shows that Ireland has a pure population of Apis m. mellifera, and to ensure the continuation of this purity, whilst also keeping with Target 4.4, of the The All Ireland Honey Bee Strategy 2021-2025, (which slots into the All Ireland Pollinator Plan, 2021-2025, under Objective 4 of the AIPP,) Waterford County is designated a conservation area for Apis m. Mellifera.  (The AIPP 2021-2025, pages 44 to 49 inclusive.)

Waterford City and County Council should encourage the conservation of this genetic resource, through promotion and the allocation of areas for Amm  breeding, within the county.  The importation of honey bees and other strains of honey bees to the county should be discouraged.

Yours Sincerely

Aoife Nic Giolla Coda

Chairperson

Native Irish Honey Bee Society