Vol. 561 No. 3
37 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his plans to change the regulations governing the operation of marts, to facilitate non-commercial sales that are part of a local tradition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3952/03]
The 2001 foot and mouth crisis, both here and in other EU member states, has resulted in a clearer appreciation of the potential for frequent and unregulated animal movements to spread diseases. The critical importance of full traceability has also been highlighted, not just in the context of consumer protection, but also to facilitate the tracking of animal movements and contacts in the event of a disease outbreak.
While certain activities and practices may have been regarded as traditional, it does not necessarily follow that they are consistent with current and prospective requirements in relation to animal health, disease prevention, traceability and other key concerns. The BSE, and latterly FMD experiences, and animal disease outbreaks in other EU member states, have highlighted the need to critically question and where necessary alter traditional approaches to various aspects of the livestock trade in the interests of ensuring that the sector can have a secure and viable future. Sale by auction of livestock must be conducted only in a licensed mart premises, as provided for under the Livestock Marts Act 1967 as amended. I have no imminent plans to change the regulations governing the operation of marts and I do not see grounds for adopting a more liberal approach to the trading of animals in the future.
