Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 March 2018
224. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the regulatory framework in place with respect to animal welfare and lionising of exotic animals and pets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13333/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 provides for the welfare, including during a sale, of all animals.
EU Directive 92/65/EEC (the "Balai Directive") provides for the authorisation of organisations such as zoos that move certain animals between EU Member States.
TRACES (TRAde Control and Expert System) monitors intra-EU trade and the importation of animals, and therefore serves as a record of movements of animals between EU Member States.
There are a number of legislative acts under the remit of the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht that provide for the protection of animals. These include the Wildlife Acts 1976 to 2012, and legislation on habitats and on CITES.
The European Communities (Birds & Natural Habitats) Regulation 2011 restricts the importation, distribution, sale or release of approximately 70 species of plants and animals considered to be harmful invasive alien species of national concern. It is an offence to breed, reproduce or release an animal listed as an invasive alien species.
Animals covered by the EU Habitats Directive, such as otters and bats, are afforded strict protection and may not be sold in pet shops.
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna (CITES) regulates international trade in close to 35,000 species of plants and animals. It seeks to ensure that international trade in listed species is sustainable, legal and traceable.
Dog licences are under the remit of the local authorities.
