As a beekeeper, I see firsthand just how essential bees are to Ireland’s environment, farming, and food system. Bees don’t just make honey — they pollinate the crops that feed us all, from apples and berries to vegetables and animal fodder. Without them, our fields go quiet, and our plates go empty.

But right now, that future is at risk.

A highly destructive parasite, the Tropilaelaps mite, is spreading rapidly in Asia and has recently been reported in parts of Europe. Experts say this mite is even more dangerous than the Varroa mite — reproducing faster, damaging bee broods more severely, and causing entire colonies to collapse. Once established, it is extremely difficult — if not impossible — to eradicate.

If this parasite reaches Ireland, the impact could be devastating for our bees, biodiversity, and agricultural economy. But we still have a window to act.

We’re calling on the Irish Government and Northern Ireland Assembly to take immediate preventative action, including:

1. Tougher Border Controls
2. Ban the import of live bees, second-hand hives, and beekeeping equipment from countries where the Tropilaelaps mite is present.
3. Hire and Train More Bee Inspectors. We urgently need more skilled inspectors across the island to monitor hives, enforce biosecurity, and detect early signs of infestation.
4. National Surveillance and Emergency Planning. Set up robust early detection systems and contingency plans to respond quickly to any outbreak.
5. All-Island Strategy.
   Ensure a coordinated North–South response — parasites don’t stop at borders.
6. Public Awareness and Beekeeper Education. Equip farmers, beekeepers, and the public with the knowledge to spot the mite and report problems early.

This is not just a beekeeping issue. It’s about protecting the food we eat, the farms we rely on, and the wildflowers and ecosystems we love. We cannot afford to wait for a crisis to unfold — by then it will be too late.

🐝 Please sign and share this petition. Let’s protect Ireland’s bees — and everything that depends on them.