Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 1158: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the rules and regulations which farmers who transport animals more than 40 miles but have less than eight hours have to comply with; the impact same will have on marts and show and sale events; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28404/06]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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Council Regulation (EC) 1 of 2005 on the protection of animals during transport harmonises EU rules on the transport and care of animals and will apply on a phased basis from January 2007.

The Regulation provides for graduated rules in respect of the transport of animals for three categories of journeys: up to 65 kilometres; over 65 kilometres and under 8 hours, and long journeys over 8 hours. Farmers here will fall into the first two categories.

I am aware that in general Irish farmers and transporters operate to the highest animal welfare standards. The new rules will specify the standards to be applied and they will be operated in a sensible manner that will ensure compliance with the legislation, no additional cost to farmers and no disruption to trade.

Basic minimum provisions relating to animal welfare will continue to be required in respect of the transport of animals regardless of duration. For journeys up to 65km, farmers (or others) will not require any authorisation or specific training.

Persons transporting animals beyond 65km will have to be registered with the District Veterinary Office and from 2008 will have to demonstrate competence. However, farmers using their own vehicles will not have to undergo any specific training as they will be deemed to have the required competence based on the levels of farmer training undertaken in Ireland, the approval process for herd numbers and the availability of a Department issued leaflet on animal transport.

There is scope in the Regulation to exempt certain activities from the general rules. In this way the transport of animals to agricultural shows will be facilitated.

I am satisfied that properly regulated transport of animals plays an essential role in supporting both our indigenous farming activity on this island and our export trade in live animals. I am also satisfied that Ireland will meet the requirements of the Regulation without imposing additional obstacles or costs on farmers or livestock marts.