Animal Welfare.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 March 2004

Tuesday, 2 March 2004

Questions (146)

Tony Gregory

Question:

226 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if there are plans to prohibit the use of electricity to immobilise farm animals — electro-immobilisation — in light of scientific research indicating that the procedure results in physical and psychological stress and aversive behaviour, which has led to prohibition in other countries such as the UK; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6934/04]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

I have no immediate plans for prohibition of this practice. I am, however, anxious to obtain an expert view in the matter and in that regard I am requesting the scientific advisory committee on animal health and welfare to evaluate the physical and psychological effects on animals subjected to this procedure and to furnish a view. I will await the committee's expert advice.