Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:220 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the extent to which pigs have been imported into this country in the past 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25881/03]
Written Answers. - Live Imports.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:221 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the extent to which sheep have been imported into this country in the past 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25882/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 220 and 221 together.
According to the data available from the Animo report system, by which exporting EU member states notify importing member states of exports of live animals and animal based products, the following details have been reported in respect of imports of pigs and sheep into Ireland in the 12 months to 31 October 2003:
|
Pigs for breeding |
85 |
Sheep for fattening |
304 |
|
Pigs for slaughter |
11,777 |
Sheep for breeding |
530 |
|
Sheep for slaughter |
316,626 |
||
|
Total |
11,862 |
Total |
317,460 |
Under the rules of the single market, trade in live animals and animal based products is permitted, subject to agreed intra-community animal health and welfare rules.