Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
1198. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will ensure that no shipment of livestock transported by ship will leave when winds of force six or above are predicted, as recently happened in Foynes (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56594/23]
View answerDepartment of Agriculture, Food and the Marine officials ensure that animals are fit for transport and comply with the terms of their health certification, as well as ensuring that journeys are only allowed in conditions whereby animals can be transported in compliance with the EU's animal welfare legislation and with Ireland’s national legislation.
The acceptable weather conditions for a livestock vessel to carry cattle in, on a journey from Ireland, are laid down in the applicable national legislation, S.I. Number 356 of 2016, the Carriage of Livestock by Sea Regulations (as amended). They are as follows:
The Master of the vessel must have in his or her possession immediately prior to the time of sailing,
(a) the current 96 hour weather forecast from the Irish Meteorological Service covering both wind and sea conditions for those sea areas in which the vessel is intended to travel during the first 96 hours of the voyage, and
(b) sufficient other information on the recent and prevailing wind and sea conditions for the route of the intended voyage as would enable him or her to assess the sea conditions on the route.
The Master of the vessel must ensure that the vessel does not depart from the State if the forecast predicts unfavourable sea and wind conditions, for any sea area in which the vessel is intended to travel during the first 96 hours of the intended voyage during a period in which the vessel would be in that sea area.
The forecast must not predict wind of Beaufort Force 8 or greater, for the sea areas in which the vessel is intended to travel during the period in which the vessel will be in that sea area. For vessels of less than 90 metres in length or having a roll period of less than 15 seconds, the corresponding figure is Beaufort Force 6 or greater.
In the event that unexpected weather conditions arise en route, the Master of the vessel may amend the course of the vessel as he or she sees fit, in order to maximise the welfare, health and safety of the crew as well as the animals on board.
The Department has and will continue to ensure that these rules are enforced.
