Animal Welfare Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 May 2013

Wednesday, 8 May 2013

Questions (185)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

185. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the fact that his Department will not accept certification by an appropriate planning professional to the effect that some accommodation developments required for compliance with animal welfare legislation are largely in accord the respective planning applications as is normally the practice where a slight variation with plans submitted occurs; if a means can be found to resolve such issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21793/13]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

I assume the Deputy refers to the terms of both the TAMS Sow Welfare and Poultry Welfare Schemes. Under the terms of both Schemes, each grant application must be accompanied by either full planning permission or a declaration of exemption issued by the relevant local authority. Where a small variation occurs between the approved dimensions and the completed structure, the applicant is required to get confirmation from the relevant local authority that the completed structure is in compliance with the terms and conditions of the planning permission. As both Schemes are now closed for applications, I have no plans to amend with retroactive effect the provisions of either Scheme.