Ciarán Cuffe (Dún Laoghaire, Green Party)
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Question 91: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she plans to introduce procedures that will reduce the risk of animals contracting MRSA; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14225/05]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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MRSA, or methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus, is an antibiotic resistant bacterium, the presence of which in humans was noted over 35 years ago and which has been a feature of antibiotic resistance in human therapy since. During the past two years, the presence of the bacterium has been noted in animals, in particular, dogs and horses. It is thought that the route of infection has been from pet owners and veterinary practitioners.

I am aware that earlier this year, Veterinary Ireland circulated its members advising them of the problem, of how to deal with cases and of procedures to be adopted to minimise risk of transmission in their practices. Veterinary Ireland has also asked practitioners to inform animal owners of the risks which can arise from contact with companion animals infected with the bacterium. I fully support this initiative.