Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 July 2020
922. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the views of a number of animal welfare groups that an upcoming shipment of live animals from Ireland to Libya could contravene EU rules on protecting transported live animals to third countries; his views on same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19925/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe export of animals is a critical part of Ireland’s livestock industry. It plays a significant role in stimulating price competition and providing an alternative market outlet for farmers. My Department facilitates this trade, recognising its critical importance to the agri-sector, while ensuring that live animal exports meet the highest welfare standards. In 2019, the combined total value of animal exports to the Irish economy was €167 million. The vast majority of animals moved are for trade within the EU. A smaller proportion are exported to non-EU countries.
The proposed journey in question, as with all live export shipments from Ireland, will be conducted in full compliance with the legislative requirements.
My Department implements a stringent system of controls on the welfare of animals being exported, in particular, through a comprehensive legislative framework relating to the transport of animals by sea (The Carriage of Livestock by Sea Regulations 2016 (S.I. 356 of 2016).
Cattle being exported are monitored during the prescribed isolation period by Department Veterinary Inspectors and, in some cases, by Official Veterinarians from the importing countries. This is in addition to work carried out by Private Veterinary Practitioners who carry out the testing required prior to export to enable certification. Animals are inspected and certified by Official Veterinarians from the Department with regard to their health status and fitness for travel.
All proposed journeys must be notified to the Regional Veterinary Office at least 48 hours in advance, and veterinary certification will only be provided where the journey complies with all animal transport regulations.
Ireland continues to work closely with other EU Member State and the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) with a view to improving animal welfare practices worldwide. In this regard, Ireland has reaffirmed its on-going commitment to animal welfare through additional OIE multi-annual financial assistance (€75,000 per annum over the period 2017-20) to support its activities directed towards enhancing animal welfare worldwide.
