Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I certainly will take an interest in that. It is something I am very committed to because I want to see our small abattoirs being supported. I know we have seen a significant change in the landscape over the past decade or two in relation to the number of abattoirs in the country. There has been significant consolidation, but I want to ensure the services that small abattoirs need are provided to them. For most of the small abattoirs, veterinary services are supplied through the local authority vets. My Department, working with the Food Safety Authority, has a role in this. It also works with the local authorities. There have been additional challenges since the application of the Brexit veterinary health certification requirements. Everyone has worked hard to respond to that and make sure those resources are in place. That is something I have been monitoring closely and will continue to do so they are able to adjust to that. There have been some challenges there, but we are trying to make sure they are worked through and the supports and backup that are needed are in place.

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