Vol. 397 No. 3
57 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will outline the health and safety requirements in respect of the export of Irish cattle, sheep and poultry; the measures taken by his Department to ensure that those requirements are fully adhered to at all times; if he is satisfied that those requirements are at all times fully met; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
67 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has any plans to update the law in relation to the mistreatment of animals; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 57 and 67 together.
Currently all animals for export by sea or air are subject to veterinary and welfare inspection by Department inspectors at approved points of export in order to determine and certify fitness for travel, adequacy of vehicles or vessels for the conveyance of live animals, adequacy of supplies of feed and water for the intended journey, and that the health status of the animals being exported complies with the requirements of the importing country. I am satisfied that the requirements are adhered to. The EC Commission has made proposals relating to minimum standards for the protection of farm animals and when they are finalised, I will make appropriate regulations to give effect to them.
