Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 March 2021
2032. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will address a matter (details supplied) in relation to the welfare of dairy calves born in 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15667/21]
View answerEvery calf born on an Irish farm is of value, and every farmer is responsible for the welfare of his or her calves. EU legislation is in place to protect the welfare of calves (Council Directive 2008/119/EC). This legislation is implemented in Ireland by national legislation, namely S.I. 311 of 2010, European Communities (Welfare of Farmed Animals) Regulations 2010.
Both I and my Department takes the welfare of all animals very seriously and significant resources are allocated to ensuring the welfare of dairy calves in particular. In 2020, for example, a total of 192 targeted dairy calf welfare inspections were carried out. In addition to pre-planned inspections, reports of specific welfare incidents or concerns are also investigated.
The Department is aware of reports of a very small and isolated number of incidents where dead calves have been reported as being found disposed of incorrectly. There is no excuse for such irresponsible dumping of any dead animal and the Department liaises with other agencies in investigating such incidents.
Last month, I wrote to every dairy farmer encouraging them to develop his or her breeding policy, taking into account what will happen to each calf born on the farm – whether it goes on to become a dairy replacement animal or has a value in beef or veal production. On-farm breeding policy determines the welfare, value and utility of calves born in dairy herds.
