Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 2 Nov 1993

Vol. 435 No. 3

Written Answers. - Deer Velveting.

Tony Gregory

Question:

78 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the Irish Veterinary Association has expressed concern at the introduction this summer to this country of the practice of deer velveting which is banned in many countries on animal welfare grounds; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry (Mr. J. Walsh)

I am aware of the concern to which the Deputy refers. The question of harvesting antlers in velvet from deer in this country is under examination in my Department, and I expect to make a decision in the near future.