Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2015
158. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if shops selling tonics and other legal substances for greyhounds are being monitored to ensure that they are only selling substances that comply with Bord na gCon guidelines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6674/15]
View answerWhile my Department legislates for and implements a control regime in relation to all veterinary medicines (animal remedies), the focus of this is not specifically aimed at ensuring that products comply with Bord na gCon guidelines. Bord na gCon is the statutory body responsible for the regulation of greyhound racing under the Greyhound Industry Act 1958. In addition Bord na gCon has specific statutory powers conferred on it under the Greyhound Industry (Racing) Regulations 2007, which relate to the conduct of greyhound racing.
My Department's regulatory role in relation to veterinary medicines generally, which derives in the main from EU legislation designed to ensure common, scientifically based, high standards apply across all member states, is focussed on ensuring that only appropriately licensed products are imported into and sold in Ireland in accordance with authorised and licensed distribution channels. The main national legislation governing this area is the European Communities (Animal Remedies) (No. 2) Regulations 2007, (SI 786 of 2007). While this legislation applies to animals generally, additional requirements apply to medicines for animals entering the food chain, which are designed to protect consumers from either unauthorised products, or residues of authorised products in excess of those scientifically found to be safe.
A significant element of the control regime is a licensing process for those involved in the commercial distribution of veterinary medicines at both wholesale and retail levels. In order to obtain a license, applicants must demonstrate that they meet requisite standards in regard to storage and record-keeping, particularly to ensure traceability of products through the system.
Licensed outlets are inspected by my Department's inspectorate to ensure compliance with the conditions of their licenses and with the animal remedies legislation in general. In addition, my Department's Investigations Division investigates any suspected or reported illegal activity in relation to the animal remedies regulations. Breaches of licence conditions or of the legislation generally may result in suspension or revocation of the licence and can also include prosecution in the Courts. Those found guilty of offences are liable on conviction in the District Court to be fined up to €5,000 and/or a term of imprisonment of up to 6 months, or, if convicted by the Circuit Court, to a fine of up to €500,000 and/or imprisonment up to 3 years.
