Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 31 May 2000

Vol. 520 No. 2

Written Answers. - Live Exports.

Tony Gregory

Question:

90 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the action, if any, he has taken to ensure that the transport of live animals from here complies with EU legislation in view of the fact that a recent EU Commission investigation revealed that several requirements of Directive 91/628/EEC were very often not met here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15617/00]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh):

My Department has always sought to ensure that animals are transported from Ireland in conditions which meet strict welfare criteria and which comply with EU legislation as regards standards of transport, ventilation, stocking density, rest periods, and fodder and water provisions. Animals being transported are inspected prior to departure to assess their fitness to travel and their health status. In addition, departmental veterinary staff travel from time to time with consignments to monitor conditions and to ensure that the animals arrive in good condition at their destination. Trucks and vessels are inspected before approval for use in the export trade, and follow-up inspections are also carried out. In addition, our legislation specifically precludes ships from sailing when the weather forecasts indicate adverse weather conditions.

Animal welfare issues, including transport, are subject to regular scrutiny by the European Commission, including inspection missions conducted by the Food and Veterinary Office, which has drawn attention to some deficiencies in relation to transport. I attach considerable importance to animal welfare and to ensuring that every effort is made to ensure compliance with the relevant standards and requirements. My Department will respond positively to any suggestions for improvement which result from time to time from FVO inspections and is always willing to participate with other member states in examining ways in which the animal welfare situation across the EU can be further improved. In this regard, I understand that the EU Commission is currently reviewing the transport legislation and will shortly present a report to the Council of Ministers.