Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 364: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps he is taking to reduce the burden of red tape on small animal feed merchants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19673/08]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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I am not aware of any specific requirements being placed on small animal feed merchants, other than those required of any small business enterprise, that could be considered burdensome red tape. The Deputy may be referring to a letter distributed by my Department last November, with an end December closing date, to all commercial feed operators involved in the manufacture, storage or handling of animal feed. In accordance with EU Feed Hygiene Regulations all operators involved in such activity were registered as Feed Business Operators in 2006. The Regulations require my Department to secure a declaration from these operators, within two years of registration, that they are in compliance with the obligations of such registration, particularly in relation to HACCP and food/feed safety.

The letter merely reminded the operators of their obligations and asked that the declaration be signed. A stamped return envelope was provided. My Department is currently examining the returns. I am satisfied that this process did not place any undue burden on the businesses concerned.