Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 29 Nov 2001

Vol. 545 No. 3

Written Answers. - Pet Food Imports.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

99 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he will give assurances that imported pet foods come from locations which have an animal disease free status in accordance with European standards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30378/01]

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

Products of animal origin imported from other member states and from third countries must comply with certain standards of production as provided for under EU legislation in order to protect animal and public health. Before any such trading is permitted consideration is given by the European Commission to a number of factors which are the health status of the livestock, both domestic and wild, especially in regard to exotic diseases; the swiftness of the country to report the existence of infectious diseases; the country's preventative controls for animal diseases; the structure of the veterinary service and laboratory service; the country's control measures on prohibited substances; the premises of production meet EU requirements; and the product is certified in compliance with the relevant veterinary legislation.

In relation to countries with particular incidences of animal diseases, such as BSE or foot and mouth disease, additional measures are taken by requiring specific veterinary certification in relation to the product with regard to its production and processing procedures. These measures are under constant review to ensure the continued protection of animal and public health. I have been pressing the Commission and the Council to undertake a review of the import regime for foodstuffs and broaden control arrangements, particularly in regard to products being transported for personal consumption.