Billy Timmins
Question:75 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his views regarding the importation of animal feedstuffs; the way in which his Department monitors this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24123/02]
Written Answers. - Animal Feedstuffs.
Up to two thirds of the non-forage feed materials used in feedingstuffs are imported mainly from third countries. These are principally protein sources not available in Ireland. I am satisfied that the controls on animal feed operated by my Department fulfil all the obligations under the EU regulations on animal feeds which are among the strictest in the world. The EU controls in this area are continually monitored and reviewed by the European Commission and have been intensified on a number of occasions. The controls in operation here cover both home produced and imported feed from the EU and third countries. Specific controls with regard to imported feed include initial checks by the customs officials on the type of feed; documentary check by staff of my Department; inspections of storage facilities and targeted sampling and analysis of consignments of animal feed in order to ensure compliance with the legislation. As a further control in the safeguarding of our national herd against BSE, my Department is committed to ensuring that all future imports of feed material are sampled on arrival.