Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)

I am aware it is difficult to address this issue in the context of the current political vacuum in the North. We would all welcome a true all-Ireland animal health regime as it would address the concerns arising in this area. While I accept that the paperwork may be in order, it is critically important that checks and balances are introduced to ensure proper procedures operate for lambs being imported from the United Kingdom via the North, as opposed to animals originating in the North. I also acknowledge that the balance in cross-Border trade is changing.

I hope the parties in the North will resolve their current differences and an all-Ireland animal health regime will be introduced as a result because farmers on both sides of the Border would benefit. In the interim, is the Minister satisfied that all procedures are being implemented as envisaged?

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