Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 June 2013
1060. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Health his stance on measures to ensure that the regulatory framework for Horizon 2020 EU research programmes provides essential funding to advance methods of biomedical research which do not involve the use of animals. [28099/13]
View answerAs the Deputy will know, Ireland is implementing Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes which includes the principles of replacement, reduction and refinement.
I understand that the recitals to the Framework Regulation for Horizon 2020, as proposed by the Commission, contain the following in paragraph 24 "Research and innovation activities supported by Horizon 2020 should respect fundamental ethical principles. The opinions of the European Group on Ethics in Science and New Technologies should be taken into account.
Research activities should also take into account Article 13 TFEU and reduce the use of animals in research and testing, with a view ultimately to replacing animal use. All activities should be carried out ensuring a high level of human health protection in accordance with Article 168 TFEU".
Negotiations on the Horizon 2020 Programme are still ongoing between the European Council , the Commission and the European Parliament. It is hoped to have an agreement reached by end June under the Irish Presidency.
