I propose to take Questions Nos. 469 and 470 together.
Council Regulation (EC) No. 1/2005 on the protection of animals during transport and related operations lays down the requirements and conditions for the transport of live animals, including bovines, undertaken in connection with an economic activity, and the related operations of handling, loading and unloading. The Regulation is given effect in national legislation by the European Communities (Animal Transport and Control Post) Regulations 2006. (Statutory Instrument No. 675 of 2006). Live exports are an important component of Ireland’s livestock industry and my Department promotes an environment in which live exports take place with a strong emphasis on the welfare of all animals being exported. A considerable amount of resources is deployed to the process of certifying animals for export and in ensuring compliance in respect of the welfare of the animals being exported. My Department is regularly in contact with the Competent Authorities in other Member States through which live animals pass en route to their final destination. The purpose of these contacts is to ensure that the regulations in place regarding rest, feed and water are obeyed regardless of the location of the animals or the transport vehicle or vessel. For instance, where transporters are suspected of failing to obey the regulations on the protection of live animals during transport in Ireland or other Member States, there is a system in place for official notifications to the Member State of origin of the journey and the Member State where the transporter is authorised. Any such official notifications are investigated and where there are non-compliances appropriate sanctions are applied to the transporters and organisers of the journey. In terms of the issue raised concerning the export of calves on a replacement ship, there are strict arrangements in place with the shipping companies engaged in transporting animals, to ensure adequate oversight of the animals when in transit. My Department is satisfied that these arrangements are working in a satisfactory manner and that the welfare of the calves is not compromised.
With regard to the incident leading to the death of calves in the Netherlands, this appears to result from an unfortunate road traffic accident. The Dutch authorities are investigating the circumstances of the accident.
My Department will continue to promote and maintain an environment in which live exports can continue in both an economic and sustainable manner and with due regard for the welfare of all animals exported.
