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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 21 Nov 2001

Vol. 544 No. 4

Written Answers. - Cattle Movement Regulations.

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]

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.

I will be reviewing my decision in relation to the 30 day rule at the appropriate time. However, I have said in the past that there are some aspects of Irish agricultural life that may never be the same again. Quite apart from the situation in Great Britain, one of the clear lessons to be learned from the foot and mouth disease episode is the need to address some of the traditional practices in relation to animal movement, for disease control and other reasons. As well as taking on board the foot and mouth situation in Great Britain, and the understandable pressure from the industry in this country, I intend to take all of the experiences of the foot and mouth crisis into account in my consideration of this issue. I will also be discussing this issue with my colleague, Ms Brid Rodgers, Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development for Northern Ireland.
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