Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 14 Feb 2002

Vol. 548 No. 4

Written Answers. - Foot and Mouth Disease.

Phil Hogan

Question:

56 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he will publish the result of his investigation arising from malpractice associated with the illegal importation of sheep from the United Kingdom in early 2001; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4123/02]

Michael Bell

Question:

65 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if prosecutions have arisen as a result of the foot and mouth disease crisis in 2001; if so, the nature of those prosecutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4954/02]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 56 and 65 together.

The special investigation unit of my Department and the Garda Síochána are carrying out a number of investigations surrounding the illegal importation of animals and other associated activities.

There are a number of case files with the DPP with a recommendation for prosecution, and other case files are at various stages of investigation. One case has already been before the courts and was recently brought to a successful conclusion. The cases relate mainly to the illegal movement and importation into the State of animals during the foot and mouth crisis.