Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 September 2022
288. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide details of Ireland's position on the establishment of a European Union-wide negative list system for exotic animals. [47450/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraA proposal has been submitted for discussion at European level for the establishment of a European Union positive list for keeping companion animals. I welcome this initiative and support this effort to advance animal welfare and protect public health. The benefits in terms for animal welfare, biodiversity and public health and safety which this initiative could progress are very much aligned to Ireland’s overall national strategic goals in these important areas.
In line with the Programme for Government and the action identified in the the Animal Welfare Strategy 2021-2025 - Working Together for Animal Welfare, I have asked my officials to take the lead in establishing an inter-departmental group to ensure a coherent national approach to policy and regulation related to exotic animals. Initial meetings of the group have taken place and the focus will be on regulating the keeping, breeding and trading of exotic animals.
