Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 2 May 1991

Vol. 407 No. 8

Written Answers. - Export of Live Horses.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

51 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food whether he opposes the export of live horses for slaughter abroad; and if so, if he accepts that the proposed European Council Regulation provides sufficient protection to prevent such traffic.

Nuala Fennell

Question:

55 Mrs. Fennell asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the EC Directives which exist in relation to the transport of live animals across Europe; and the present position regarding same.

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. O'Kennedy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 51 and 55 together.

At present, exports of live horses are controlled by a licensing system and the export of live horses for slaughter on the Continent is not authorised.

The protection of animals during international transport is currently governed by two Community Directives Nos. 77/489/EEC and 81/389/EEC. The EC Commission has, in the context of the Single Market, submitted new proposals to Council for a regulation to replace the existing directives which when adopted will apply to the transport of animals, including horses, after 1992. The proposed measure is intended to provide a high level of welfare protection which will be uniformly applicable throughout the Community. I will endeavour in discussions to ensure that the final measures when adopted will reflect the highest level of welfare consistent with reasonable trade requirements.