Trevor Sargent
Ceist:202 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if, in view of the concerns regarding cruelty to Irish greyhounds exported to Spain, he will intervene in the matter. [25809/03]
Written Answers. - Animal Welfare Bodies.
Trade in greyhounds between member states of the EU is permitted under EU law, subject to compliance with intra community animal health and welfare rules. Following media reports alleging cruelty to greyhounds on a particular journey to Spain in July of this year, my Department's special investigation unit, SIU, launched a detailed investigation into the matter. The SIU did not find any evidence to substantiate the allegations made. However, I understand that since that time, on the basis of advice from my Department, the transporter in question has modified the specifications of the transport vehicle to further improve conditions for any dogs being transported.