Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
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Question 31: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding the EU Commission proposals for changes to animal transport legislation. [43636/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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The transport of animals is governed by Council Regulation (EC) 1 of 2005 on the protection of animals during transport and related operations. The Commission is undertaking a review of this legislation, and a draft proposal was circulated within the Commission services. The proposal received a number of negative opinions during the course of inter-service consultation, relating to scientific data and data protection. As a result of this the original draft proposal was withdrawn.

Commissioner Vassiliou is aware of my concerns regarding any proposals that would have an adverse affect on our live export trade.

I wish to assure the Deputy that I will continue to participate fully in the discussions on any proposals that may emerge to ensure that account is taken of Ireland's interests.

Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 32: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a multi-agency group to address the issue of abandoned horses will be established; the timeframe within which the group will be established; the way the membership of this multi-agency group will be chosen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43641/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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I met recently with representatives of the horse industry and welfare bodies during which I was briefed on the possible risk of horse welfare problems developing over the coming months including a risk of abandonment of horses. Arising from discussions, officials of my Department have met with representatives from the horse industry and through the auspices of the Farm Animal Welfare Advisory Council, have engaged with representatives from farming and animal welfare bodies to discuss the issue of horse welfare. In addition I have asked Veterinary Inspectors from my Department's District Veterinary Offices to carry out an assessment to identify any potential problems with horses on farms. Further meetings are being arranged with relevant stakeholders including welfare bodies involved with horses to ensure that the matter is kept under close review.

I am satisfied however that existing communication structures are more than adequate to respond to current issues relating to horse welfare. I have also written to my colleague Mr. John Gormley TD, Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government in the context of the Control of Horses Act 1996. The ongoing effective implementation of this Act by Local Authorities can assist with reducing potential horse welfare problems developing particularly with regard to those horses that are being abandoned.