Vol. 536 No. 6
150 Mr. Ellis asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he will now review the position regarding movement of sheep by farmers from different plots of land which are on their area aid application form but are more than ten miles apart or in different counties. [15190/01]
The foot and mouth crisis has highlighted the disease control risks that attach to widespread movement of animals. It has also underlined the need for continuous monitoring of animal movement. In that context, the EU Commission, in consultation with the standing veterinary committee, has taken a number of decisions to restrict the movement of animals of species susceptible to foot and mouth. Nationally, in determining the extent of restrictions necessary on animal movement, I have been assisted by the advice and recommendations of the expert review group. At this juncture, I have already taken the measures I feel are appropriate to resume trade.
In so far as sheep are concerned, they may be moved to slaughter plants either directly or through approved assembly centres. They may also be moved short distances between different fragments of the same holding on animal welfare grounds. Given the difficulties associated with the detection of FMD in sheep, I do not consider that the time is yet right to extend the scope of the permitting arrangements in regard to movement of this species. I will, however, keep the matter under close review.
