Dáil debates

Thursday, 22 November 2007

3:00 pm

Photo of Michael CreedMichael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)

I welcome the Minister's assurances in respect of avian flu, foot and mouth disease and bluetongue. We have just concluded a debate on climate change. I am sure the Minister is aware that the World Organisation for Animal Health has concluded that many of the threats we face in the context of animal disease have arisen as a result of climate change. The equine industry in this country is currently under threat from swamp fever. The latter was largely unheard of here before 28 cases arose in 2006. West Nile fever has been found in Italy and France, rabies has been discovered in Finland, anthrax has appeared in Azerbaijan and there have been cases of glanders disease — by which humans can be affected — in Iran.

There is a need for increased vigilance. While I appreciate the expertise that is available within the Department, it is our contention on this side of the House that there is a need not merely to react to threats but also to maintain constant vigilance in respect of this issue. The latter would be best facilitated by establishing, on a statutory basis, a biosecurity unit to monitor all threats. Will the Minister consider establishing such a unit? It could, similar to the way in which the Food Safety Authority of Ireland works in tandem with the European Food Safety Authority, act in conjunction with international experts. This is a growing threat.

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