Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 February 2019
460. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the measures being taken to address concerns regarding the porcine genetic industry relative to a Brexit scenario (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9231/19]
View answerIreland remains firmly of the view that the best and only way to ensure an orderly withdrawal and protect the Good Friday Agreement is to ratify the Withdrawal Agreement as agreed between the EU and the British Government. However we will continue our preparations for all outcomes, including for a no-deal scenario. While we do not want this to happen, we are doing all we can to be prepared both at home and in cooperation with our EU partners.
In relation to export requirements, the procedures are determined by the UK. In its Preparedness Notice on importing animals and animal products - last updated on 20 February 2019 and available at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/using-traces-to-trade-in-animals-and-animal-products?utm_source=03743c17-54c9-4ee9-ae9c-11200f776314&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications&utm_content=immediate - the UK has stated that the existing arrangements will not change with the exception of using TRACES. Importers into the UK will have to use the UK equivalent system when it is operational.
On this basis it is believed that the UK will continue to seek health certification for live animals and certain other animal products including germinal products as mentioned by the Deputy after Brexit.
