Brendan Howlin
Question:137 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he will make a statement on the progress to date of the fallen animal collection scheme. [25114/01]
Written Answers. - Disposal of Animal Carcases.
A fully comprehensive fallen animal collection scheme was introduced on 1 July 2001. This scheme provides for the subsidised collection and destruction of fallen animals from all farm species.
Since the introduction of the scheme the collection infrastructure has expanded to the extent that subsidised collection services are now available in all 26 counties and I understand that a prompt and efficient collection service is currently available.
The significant increase in the volumes of animals being collected and delivered for rendering has resulted in a comparable decrease in the number of licensed burials. The fallen animal scheme is already delivering significant benefits in terms of environmental protection as well as in the areas of animal and public health.
The existence of such a service is an integral part of a modern livestock industry and I am extremely satisfied with the progress made in this respect.
Question No. 138 answered with Question No. 125.
Question No. 139 answered with Question No. 129.
Question No. 140 answered with Question No. 103.