Vol. 544 No. 5
121 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the conditions under which the owners of licensed bulls may move the animals for breeding purposes; if restrictions exists on such movement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29387/01]
The movement restrictions applying to licensed bulls are the same as those applying to other bovines.
Farm to farm movement of cattle is permitted, provided a permit is obtained in advance from SWS in Bandon. In addition, movement may be permitted only where the animal in question has been resident on the holding from which it is to be moved for a minimum of 30 days.
This rule was initially introduced as a result of the foot and mouth disease crisis. In this context, I am encouraged by the continued absence of new outbreaks of foot and mouth disease in Great Britain since 30 September. However, I still regard it as essential to maintain a precautionary approach to this virulent disease. The need for continued caution is underlined by the fact that, contrary to expectations, outbreaks have occurred in Britain in the past in areas deemed clear of the disease for a considerable period. Therefore, I considered that the extension of the movement controls for a further two months provides an additional safeguard in containment and control measures.
