Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 14: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the implications of her agreement at the December 2004 Council of Ministers to introduce regulations regarding the transport of animals over 40 miles; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1790/05]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The EU regulation to which the Deputy refers is Council Regulation (EC) No. 1/2005. It should be noted that most of the requirements contained in this regulation will not come into effect until 5 January 2007, with a small number of other provisions only having effect from 1 January 2008 and 1 January 2009.

The Council regulation, when it comes into force, is designed to improve the welfare of animals during transport both within member states and throughout the European Union and follows intense negotiations at both the official and political levels over the past 18 months.

The main provisions of this regulation do not apply to the transport by farmers of their own animals using their own vehicles for distances up to 50 km. Several other provisions do not apply to persons transporting animals for distances up to 65 km. In addition, the more detailed requirements relating to certificates of competence for drivers and attendants and certificates of approval of vehicles apply only to transport in excess of eight hours. My Department is currently considering the arrangements and requirements in relation to the operation of the new regime for the transport of animals here at home and to our European markets from 2007 onwards. It is my intention to consult all relevant parties on the most effective way to implement the regulation.

The final Council agreement did not cover the more controversial issues of stocking densities or travel times. These issues are to be reviewed by the Council within four years of the entry into force of the regulation.

Over the past number of years my Department has actively promoted the welfare of animals at all levels, including at farm and transport levels. I welcome the broad thrust of the Council regulation and I do not expect that it will impose significant burdens on the industry. On the other hand it will significantly improve the welfare of animals during transport and demonstrates Ireland's and the European Union's commitment to animal welfare.