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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 18 Apr 2000

Vol. 518 No. 3

Written Answers. - Live Exports.

Joe Higgins

Question:

125 Mr. Higgins (Dublin West) asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he has received information from Compassion in World Farming regarding the cruel treatment of young calves being exported to the Netherlands; and, if so, his response in this regard. [11580/00]

I am aware of the representations made by Compassion in World Farming on the calf export trade. As I pointed out in my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 155 of 5 April 2000, the Diseases of Animals (Protection of Animals during Transport) Orders, 1995 and 1997, prescribe strict standards for feeding, watering, resting periods, journey times and stocking densities to safeguard the welfare of animals, including calves, during transportation. Additionally, the Diseases of Animals (Carriage of Cattle by Sea) Orders, 1996 and 1998, lay down rules for the carriage of cattle by sea from the State. The latter orders provide for the inspection and approval of cattle vessels which comply with specified criteria, the loading and care of cattle on vessels, conditions in relation to weather and the submission of voyage reports. Veterinary inspectors of my Department monitor compliance with this legislation.

The export of calves is a legitimate trade within the European Union. Member states are precluded by EU rules from taking any steps to restrict the export of calves to other member states. Provided that calf consignments comply with the requirements of veterinary certification and of the foregoing legislation, there can be no prohibition on exports. The treatment of calves in a member state is a matter for the authorities of that state.
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