Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 October 2020
801. Deputy Brian Leddin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to Parliamentary Question No. 896 of 22 September 2020, the date he proposes to have a veterinary presence on livestock consignments to third countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28748/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government commits the Government to “provide additional resources to monitor welfare standards, by increasing the veterinary presence available on all live export consignments to third countries”.
My Department is assessing implementation of this commitment and the possible additional actions required, whilst continuing to ensure appropriate inspection and oversight of these consignments and indeed also dealing with the practicalities of COVID-19 restrictions.
Livestock consignments to third countries are relatively infrequent events with 9 shipments in both 2018 and 2019 and 7 so far in 2020. Already this year, prior to COVID-19 restrictions, two third country shipments have been accompanied by Department veterinary inspectors.
To date, the feedback as regards the welfare, quality and health of the Irish cattle on these shipments has been positive. My Department will continue to evaluate and modify its export control systems as appropriate and necessary.
