Animal Welfare Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 April 2013

Tuesday, 30 April 2013

Questions (493)

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

493. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to Parliamentary Question No. 1068 of 16 April 2013, if he will address the question asked in relation to a person's letter (details supplied) written to his Department which stated a noted increase in movement of terriermen, men engaged in terrier activities, between here and the UK as part of their networking activities and carrying out of terrierwork together; his plans to address this issue; if he has since corresponded with the director of DiggingOut.org; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20394/13]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

With regard to the movement of terriers between Ireland and the UK, trade in live animals is regulated under EU legislation and it is not open to me to prohibit this trade provided these regulations are complied with. If the individual concerned has actual evidence that individuals are engaged in activities that are illegal either here or in the UK, they should pass it on to the relevant authorities. However, where activities are carried out in accordance with the law in this jurisdiction is not a matter requiring action. There was correspondence with the UK based group DiggingOut.org following receipt of their letter and my Department has noted its views.