Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:58 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has met farming organisations to discuss alternatives to live exports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9244/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 24 March 2004
Ceisteanna (59)
Freagraí scríofa
I have stated on numerous occasions that I regard the live export trade as of vital strategic importance to the agriculture sector in Ireland. I and my Department are in frequent contact at national level with various stakeholders regarding many aspects of the trade and are well acquainted with their various perspectives.
In September 2003, for instance, my Department undertook a round of consultations with stakeholders regarding the proposal for a Council regulation on the protection of animals during transport. While the Commission's original proposal contained a number of elements, which were of concern to Ireland and other member states, the Irish Presidency has worked assiduously towards reconciling the concerns of all member states around a compromise proposal. I believe considerable progress has been made in this regard and while more work remains to be done, I am reasonably optimistic of securing agreement on a compromise which will respect the vital interests of all member states and which can in due course command the support of the agriculture Council.
I can assure the Deputy that my determination to protect the live export trade while ensuring the welfare of the animals in transit has been conveyed to all concerned with that trade, at national and international levels.