Funds to work against bee disease

FUNDING from the EU and the Department of Agriculture and Food will be used in Ireland this year for research into Varroa, a disease in bees that is affecting many countries.

Minister of State Brendan Smith confirmed the decision when he addressed the Irish Beekeepers’ Association’s annual summer course and national honey show at Gormanston, Co Meath.

He said the Varroa pest continues to pose a significant threat to Irish bees and it is vital to explore new control methods, which are safe for bees, the environment and honey products.