Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 January 2014
680. Deputy Michael P. Kitt asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if there has been a review of the charges for disposal of dead animals; when it was decided to increase the charge by €5 per animal; his views on the implications of the increase in charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1519/14]
View answerThe TSE (Fallen Animal) Subsidy Scheme is an essential element of the infrastructure underpinning Ireland’s successful livestock and meat processing industries, which had an estimated combined export value of almost €3.0 billion in 2012. The Scheme ensures that fallen bovine animals over 48 months, which must be BSE-tested in accordance with EU legislation, are disposed of in compliance with all animal and public health and environmental regulations.
The Scheme subsidises the collection by animal collectors of fallen cattle over 48 months from farms and their transportation to Category 1 rendering plants. The rendering and disposal costs of over 48 month fallen cattle in Category 1 plants are fully covered by the Scheme. The subsidy has two components, €30 paid to the animal collector and €58 paid to the Category 1 renderer in respect of each animal. The collection charge to the farmer is capped at €54.03, including VAT.
The operation of the Subsidy Scheme has been examined in the Department and a number of changes have been introduced. These include enhanced compliance provisions and putting some limits on the distance material can be carried while maintaining choice. This examination took into account a number of factors, including budgetary considerations, TSE testing requirements, Animal By-Product (ABP) regulations, the need to maintain competition and the need for an adequate collection and disposal infrastructure. It is important to note however that the rates payable under the Scheme have not changed and the maximum collection charge to the farmer remains at €54.03.
These conditions only apply to material collected and disposed of under the TSE (Fallen Animal) Subsidy Scheme. Bovines under 48 months are outside the remit of the scheme and their collection and disposal is a matter for commercial arrangement.
