asked the Minister for Agriculture the total number of hauliers that have been prosecuted; the total number convicted under EEC regulations as a result of having dirty lorries, etc.; and if he will make a statement on the situation.
Written Answers. - Road Hauliers.
226.
In dealing with hauliers who transport livestock in dirty vehicles, veterinary officers of my Department have been taking on-the-spot action to enforce the relevant regulations. Depending on circumstances, such action ranges from verbal admonishment to rejection of consignments of animals presented in dirty vehicles. The latter, in particular, has been found in practice to be quite effective. My Department also periodically draw the attention of the livestock trade and the hauliers to the necessity at all times for maintaining proper standards of hygiene and cleanliness in the transport of animals.