asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he is aware of widespread abuse of antibiotics and hormones for animal feeding and therapy; and if he considers more stringent regulations necessary.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Use of Antibiotics and Hormones.
6.
I am aware that the farmer's freedom to acquire and use antibiotics indiscriminately has built up to a situation detrimental to the farmer's own interests. Extensive publicity by my Department over the years on the correct use of antibiotics has not succeeded in correcting this tendency.
Under existing regulations the supply of hormones for animals otherwise than by or through a veterinary surgeon is prohibited. I have sought and secured the co-operation of the veterinary profession in ensuring that these substances are not used or prescribed except for necessary therapeutic purposes.
The whole question of controlling the availability and use of antibiotics and other substances in animal husbandry is at present being examined by my Department in consultation with the Department of Health, professional bodies and other interests.
In view of the transference of antibiotics to human beings from animals fed with them, would the Minister not think it advisable to introduce a regulation immediately to ensure that these antibiotics are available only through a veterinary surgeon?
This is being examined by the Department, as I said in the reply. The desirability of doing it is recognised.
Am I to take it that you can secure an antibiotic for an animal independent of a veterinary surgeon, that those who want them can buy them directly themselves?
Yes, that appears to be the position. The supply of hormones except through a veterinary surgeon is prohibited.
The antibiotics are available in the feeding.
Yes. The question of controlling this is being considered by the Department.
Would the Minister not think it is a matter of urgency?
It is being examined as a matter of urgency. The desirability of doing it is recognised.