Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 April 2024
133. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the Government made a submission to the recent EU consultation on animal welfare during transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18150/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has indicated to the EU Commission that it is generally supportive of the revision of the EU rules on animal welfare during transport, to facilitate intracommunity trade and export of live animals to third countries. The existing legislation is some 20 years old and certain aspects need to be updated in the light of practical implementation challenges and more recent scientific evidence.
My Department have been engaged with the European Commission since they commenced their review of the current legislative framework on animal welfare during transport and on developing legislation to improve the protection of animals during transport. In 2021 the Department made a written submission and presentation to the European Parliament's Committee of Inquiry on the Protection of Animals during Transport (the "ANIT Committee") which fed into the review process.
I have corresponded with Commissioner Kyriakides, both prior to and following the release of the Commission's legislative proposal (eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=COM%3A2023%3A770%3AFIN ). I have outlined to the Commissioner Ireland's support for measures to enhance the welfare of animals during transport, while pointing out that due consideration must be given to Ireland's unique geographical position. Ireland's farm families and agricultural sectors should not be disadvantaged compared with their counterparts in other Member States.
My Department has also consulted with stakeholders on the Commission proposals through the Calf Stakeholder Forum and exporters' associations.
