Dan Neville
Ceist:172 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his proposals to remove the cattle movement regulations put in force during the foot and mouth crisis. [29149/01]
Vol. 544 No. 4
172 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his proposals to remove the cattle movement regulations put in force during the foot and mouth crisis. [29149/01]
On 31 October, I announced that the 30 day holding period for purchases of susceptible animals was being extended to 31 December 2001. Under this rule, an animal may not be sold or supplied onward within a period of 30 days from the date of purchase unless the buyer has received an exemption which is granted only in particular circumstances and subject to conditions.
I am encouraged by the continued absence of new outbreaks of foot and mouth disease in Great Britain since 30 September. However, I still regard it as essential to maintain a precautionary approach in relation to this virulent disease. The need for continued caution is underlined by the fact that, contrary to expectations, outbreaks have occurred in Britain in the past in areas deemed clear of the disease for a considerable period. I considered, therefore, that the extension of the movement controls for a further two months provides an additional safeguard in containment and control measures.