Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I understand that this question relates to scientific experiments on laboratory animals. My Department has no statutory responsibility for this area. The protection of animals used for experimental or other scientific purposes is regulated under EU and national legislation. Statutory responsibility for this legislation falls within the remit of my colleague, the Minister for Health and Children.

The only involvement my Department has had in this area is that, in the past, current and recently retired members of the Department's veterinary staff carried out inspection visits on behalf of the Department of Health and Children.

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