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Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 January 2019

Tuesday, 22 January 2019

Questions (490)

Catherine Martin

Question:

490. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on whether allowing the continued exportation of farm animals to non-EU countries, in which animal welfare standards do not conform to those found here or the rest of the EU and in which they may be subject to inhumane treatment and slaughter, is compliant with the aim of his Department for Ireland being recognised for its high animal welfare standards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2583/19]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

My Department has a strong commitment towards improving animal welfare standards worldwide. It continues to work closely with other EU Member States and the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), with a view to improving animal welfare practices.

Ireland has proved its on-going commitment to animal welfare through additional OIE multiannual financial assistance to support its activities in order to enhance animal welfare worldwide. This additional support to the value of €75, 000 per annum over the period 2017-20 is focused on OIE initiatives in the area of slaughter in the regions of Eastern Europe, Middle East and North Africa and in the area of "whole journey scenarios" by land and/or sea involving inter-regional journeys.