asked the Minister for Agriculture if, in view of the fact that rabies has now reached the outer boundaries of western Europe and the chance of it reaching this country consequently has increased, he will outline any extra measures that are being taken to strengthen the vigilance at points of entry to this country.
Written Answers. - Import Regulations.
645.
My Department are constantly reviewing and strengthening all preventative procedural and control measures in relation to the threat presented by the increasing spread of rabies in western Europe.
While we have managed to stay rabies-free since 1903, the protection of our country against the introduction of the disease is a constant on-going exercise which requires the greatest possible vigilance at all times and by all people concerned. To this end my Department annually mount publicity campaigns in the press and on television to alert our own people to the dangers involved and to their responsibilities in helping to prevent any illegal imports of animals from the Continent and other rabies danger zones. Supplies of leaflets and posters are provided for distribution and display at ports, airports, yachting clubs, marinas, etc. The veterinary service of my Department organise lectures and seminars for customs officers, gardaí, local authorities, portal and airport personnel to keep them up to date and alert. Lectures are also organised for members of the Defence Forces prior to their departure on tours of duty with UN forces. Veterinary officers travel occasionally on ferry boats operating between this country and the Continent to brief crews on our rabies import regulations and alert them to the necessity for vigilance. These activities are intensified with the approach of and during the tourist season and their overall effectiveness is reviewed on an on-going basis. The co-operation of the authorities at Continental points of embarkation for Ireland is sought and readily given.
On the international front we maintain the closest possible liaison and co-operation with our counterparts in Britain, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands all of which, like us, enjoy freedom from rabies. Periodic meetings are held to co-ordinate action and exchange views on developments.
On the home front we have comprehensive contingency plans to be put into operation in the event of a suspected or confirmed case of rabies. Construction of a high security diagnostic unit for rabies at the central veterinary research laboratory at Abbotstown, County Dublin, has been completed and arrangements are proceeding for its equipment and operation.