Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

Many of my European colleagues who are vociferous on matters such as live exports have a great deal of fur farming in their countries. Sometimes we should ask the right question to see what comparative analysis exists. On the basis of the statutory requirements set down and any reviews which must take place, it is not my intention to ban fur farming. Other member states can make up their own minds on what they want to do. As it stands, no necessity exists to ban fur farming here.

Regarding animals which get out, issues arose in my part of the world particularly regarding that fences were of the highest standard. Equally, it is important to state criminal activity can occur where people interfere with fences just for the fun of it. Standards are set on fencing and access to these types of farms. I am not aware of concerns in the past year or two of animals escaping from particular farms. Where particular issues arose, they were addressed.

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