Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 February 2024
392. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine given the criticisms raised about animal welfare in China, what procedures his Department has taken to ensure the safety of thoroughbred horses, particularly in the context of the announcement that racing is to cease in Macau in April (details supplied). [9002/24]
View answerThe export of animals is regulated by both European and Irish legislation. The Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine facilitates the lawful export of horses, while ensuring that their transport is carried out in compliance with legislative welfare standards.
To be exported from Ireland to China, horses must be clinically examined by a vet and go through repeated health tests and screenings in a government approved quarantine centre before being declared fit to travel. They will then travel with a government veterinary health certificate.
International trade in thoroughbred horses is highly valued by Irish equine industry. The sale of horses is a private commercial activity. The closure of a racecourse is a matter for the authorities in that jurisdiction.
