Vol. 459 No. 8
147 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the plans, if any, he has to replace current Departmental regulations governing pig imports with the more stringent National Pig Health Council's code of practice. [19055/95]
I presume the Deputy is referring to the importation of pigs from other EU member states. As I indicated in replies to Questions on 12 December, this is governed by Council Directive 64/432/EEC, as amended, which sets out very strict conditions for such trade, including requirements that the pigs have tested negative for certain diseases and are accompanied by a health certificate issued by an authorised veterinarian in the member state of dispatch. In addition checks are carried out on consignments in accordance with the provisions of the European Communities (Trade in Animals and Animal Products) Regulations, 1994.
Whilst I appreciate the value of the voluntary Code of Practice adopted by the National Pig Health Council and would strongly encourage all importers to abide by it, the requirements of the EU single market preclude me from establishing animal health conditions over and above those set out in this directive.
